The Retreat Leaders Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Introduction: In this enlightening episode, we delve into the crucial intersection of branding and business development with Howard A. Lim, an esteemed Business and Brand Architect™. With over three decades of experience shaping world-class Authentic Brands® for a roster including Apple, Disney, and HP, Mr. Lim shares his expert insights on how effective branding is much more than just aesthetic appeal—it's about crafting a cohesive identity that resonates deeply with customers and drives business growth.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Integrating Branding and Business Development:

   • Howard discusses the common misconception that branding and business development operate in silos. He emphasizes that branding is integral to every facet of business development, not an afterthought or merely a marketing tool.
   • He shares strategies for aligning branding efforts with business objectives to ensure they work hand-in-hand towards sustainable growth.

2. Beyond Canva: Deepening Branding Efforts:

   • While tools like Canva are great for quick design tasks, Howard talks about the importance of going beyond surface-level design. He stresses the need for a deeper strategic approach that encompasses the brand’s core values, mission, and the emotional connection it aims to establish with its audience.
   • Examples are provided on how to translate a brand’s essence into every customer interaction and touchpoint.

3. Common Branding Mistakes:

   • Howard outlines typical pitfalls that many businesses encounter, such as inconsistency in messaging, neglecting customer experience, or underestimating the power of storytelling.
   • He offers advice on how businesses can avoid these mistakes and what steps they should take to rectify them if they occur.

4. Building Authentic Brands®:

   • Drawing from his book, "Authentic Branding®", Howard explains what makes a brand authentic and how authenticity can be a major differentiator in the marketplace.
   • He shares case studies from his vast experience, illustrating how authenticity has helped businesses connect more effectively with their customers and achieve remarkable growth.

5. Advice for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners:

   • Howard provides practical tips for small business owners and entrepreneurs on developing a strong brand from the outset.
   • He discusses the importance of having a clear brand vision and how to communicate this vision both internally and externally.

Conclusion: Howard wraps up the discussion by reiterating the transformative power of integrated branding and business development. He encourages listeners to think of branding as an investment in their company’s future, not just a cost.

Connect with Howard: https://howardlim.com

The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• Join our private Facebook Group
• Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide
• Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List 

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!

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Introduction: In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Rony Ghoraishy, a renowned yoga teacher and international retreat host, to explore her transformative journey from a career in real estate to embracing yoga as her life's work. With over 5,000 hours of teaching experience, Rony shares the profound impact yoga has had on her life and how she successfully transitioned into hosting retreats around the world.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Rony's Yoga Journey:
   • Rony discovered yoga 15 years ago and instantly felt a deep connection. Her dedication led her to become E-500 RYT certified through esteemed institutions like Corepower Yoga, Loyola Marymount University, and Wanderlust Hollywood.
   • She specializes in various styles, including Therapeutic Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Flow, Yin/Restorative Yoga, and Breathwork, focusing on private sessions tailored to individual needs.

1. Transition from Real Estate to Yoga:

• Rony discusses her initial career in real estate and the pivotal moment that shifted her path towards yoga. She highlights how yoga kept her grounded through life's challenges and eventually inspired her to pursue teaching full-time.

1. Hybrid Model to Full-time Retreat Hosting:

• Rony's retreat hosting journey began at Anamaya Retreat Center in Costa Rica, where she started with a hybrid model that allowed her to balance real estate and yoga. She gradually transitioned to hosting her own international retreats, now a full-time endeavor for the past eight years.

1. Hosting International Retreats:

• Rony shares her experiences leading retreats in various global destinations, including Tulum, Costa Rica, Italy, New York, and Bali. She emphasizes how she integrates her passion for travel with yoga, creating unique, themed retreats that cater to diverse groups.

1. Obstacles and Wins:

• Throughout the podcast, Rony opens up about the obstacles she faced, such as logistical challenges and adapting to different cultural expectations. She also celebrates her wins, like building a loyal community of retreat attendees and achieving a fulfilling work-life balance.

1. Blueprint to Success:

• Rony provides listeners with her blueprint for success in the retreat business. This includes tips on staying authentic, connecting deeply with clients, and continually learning and adapting to enhance retreat experiences.

1. Spiritual Psychology Influence:

• A significant aspect of Rony's teaching is influenced by her 2-year program in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica. She discusses how these principles have enriched her teachings, supporting deeper growth and healing for her students.

Conclusion: Rony's journey is a testament to the power of following one's passion and the transformative impact of yoga on both personal and professional levels. Her story is not just about changing careers but about embracing a calling that aligns with one's values and life's purpose.

About Rony: https://www.yogabyrony.com/

Rony’s retreats: https://www.yogabyrony.com/retreats-1 

Costa Rica Retreat Center: https://anamaya.com/host-your-own-retreat-at-anamaya/ 

The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• The Retreat Ranch
• Join our private Facebook Group

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 | Google Podcast | Spotify

Connect with Shannon Jamail:

• Visit The Retreat Leaders Podcast
• Visit Retreat Ranch 
• Facebook Mind & Body Complete

Join us for a lively and informative episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, where we sit down with two rising stars in the retreat world, Stina and Chelsleigh. This episode features a dynamic Q&A session covering essential topics like marketing strategies, handling unforeseen issues, and more, offering valuable insights for anyone involved in planning or leading retreats.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Introduction to Stina and Chelsleigh:
   • Brief backgrounds on our guests and how they ventured into the world of retreats.
   • Insights into what inspired them to start and what visions they have for their retreat offerings.

1. Marketing Strategies for New Retreat Leaders:

• Different marketing strategies covered to consider for retreats.

1. Tackling Common Retreat Challenges:

• Real-life examples of unexpected challenges they faced during their retreats.
• Strategies to resolve these issues, ensuring guest satisfaction and operational continuity.

1. What Happens When Things Go Wrong:

• An honest exploration of potential pitfalls in retreat planning and execution.
• Advice on maintaining composure and professionalism when dealing with complications.

1. Learning from Experience:

• Key lessons Stina and Chesleigh have learned through their experiences.
• How these lessons have shaped their planning and execution strategies for future retreats.

1. Advice for Aspiring Retreat Leaders:

• Practical tips and motivational advice for newcomers to the retreat industry.
• Encouragement to persevere through challenges and continuously seek improvement.

About Stina:

From Boston, MA, Stina’s owns 3 thriving business, one being a People Development & Wellness Company, which is how she found Shannon and The Ranch! Offering nutrition, yoga teaching & certifications, as well as retreats across the globe, while she expands her business, she wants to come to YOU! 

Give her a follow, send her a DM, and get her to you ASAP! 

Self love. 

Self healing. 

Self being, baby! 

Insta- @iamstinalicious

Fb: Facebook.com/stinaliciouss

About Chelsleigh:

Chelsleigh is completing her 200 hour yoga training in Florida and planning to host retreats through her newly established LLC “Pride and Peace Retreats”, where she will start to host day retreats for local mothers and daughters.

The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• The Retreat Ranch
• Join our private Facebook Group

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 | Google Podcast | Spotify

Connect with Shannon Jamail:

• Visit The Retreat Leaders Podcast
• Visit Retreat Ranch 
• Facebook Mind & Body Complete

In this crucial episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Cera Schrems, a seasoned business insurance specialist, to unpack the complexities of insurance for retreat hosts and venue owners. Cera brings her expertise to the table, providing essential knowledge to protect your business and ensure peace of mind.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Understanding Insurance Needs:

   - Cera outlines the different types of insurance policies that retreat hosts and venue owners should consider, including liability insurance, property insurance, and business interruption insurance.

   - Explanation of how these policies protect against various risks associated with running retreats such as accidents, property damage, and unexpected cancellations.

2. Tailoring Insurance to Retreat Operations:

   - Discussion on the importance of customizing insurance coverage to fit the specific needs and risks of a retreat business.

   - Cera provides tips on assessing risk factors and choosing the right level of coverage.

3. Legal Requirements and Best Practices:

   - Insight into the legal requirements surrounding insurance for retreats and how to comply with local laws and regulations.

   - Best practices for maintaining adequate coverage and regularly reviewing insurance policies to ensure ongoing protection as your business grows.

4. Cost Management Strategies:

   - Cera discusses strategies to manage insurance costs without compromising on necessary coverage.

More info on Cera:

Cera "C" is a Business Insurance Specialist who advises on risk management and mitigation. Through her work, she contributes to building more resilient and sustainable businesses with communities and planet in mind. Her holistic approach to insurance reflects her values of compassion, integrity, and a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact on the world around her.

LinkedIn

IG

The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• The Retreat Ranch
• Join our private Facebook Group

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 | Google Podcast | Spotify

Connect with Shannon Jamail:

• Visit The Retreat Leaders Podcast
• Visit Retreat Ranch 
• Facebook Mind & Body Complete

In this insightful episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, we sit down with Courtnie Nichols, a Luxury Travel Advisor and Business Strategist renowned for disrupting the travel industry. Courtnie shares her expert strategies for marketing retreats without relying on social media. Delve into the world of SEO, evergreen content, blogging, and other effective marketing techniques that can elevate your retreat's visibility and attract more attendees.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Introduction to Courtnie Nichols:

   - Overview of Courtnie’s background as a Luxury Travel Advisor and her influence as a Business Strategist and industry disrupter.

   - Discussion on her approach to innovative marketing strategies in the travel sector.

2. The Role of SEO in Retreat Marketing:

   - Courtnie explains how optimizing your retreat website and content for search engines can significantly increase organic reach and attract more targeted traffic.

   - Tips on keyword and SEO best practices tailored specifically for retreat leaders.

3. Leveraging Evergreen Content:

   - The importance of creating timeless content that continues to attract and engage potential retreat attendees over time.

   - Strategies for identifying topics that resonate with your target audience and maintaining relevance in your niche.

4. Blogging as a Marketing Tool:

   - How to use blogging effectively to share valuable information, establish authority, and build trust with potential attendees.

   - Insights on integrating SEO techniques into your blog posts to maximize visibility and engagement.

5. Additional Marketing Strategies:

   - Courtnie shares other non-social media marketing avenues such as partnerships, email marketing, and guest posting on relevant platforms.

   - Discussion on the integration of these strategies to create a comprehensive marketing plan that enhances retreat enrollment.

More info on Courtnie Nichols:

https://www.courtnienichols.com/about 

The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• The Retreat Ranch
• Join our private Facebook Group

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 | Google Podcast | Spotify

Connect with Shannon Jamail:

• Visit The Retreat Leaders Podcast
• Visit Retreat Ranch 
• Facebook Mind & Body Complete

In this enlightening episode, we welcome Chef Jennifer, a former executive chef turned intuitive somatic healer and mindfulness chef, who shares her profound journey from high-stress kitchen life to nourishing souls at retreats. Discover the critical role a chef with the right alignment and energy can play in enhancing the retreat experience, along with practical tips for retreat hosts on collaborating effectively with culinary professionals.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Introduction to Chef Jennifer:

   - Brief background on Chef Jennifer's transition from a high-pressure culinary career to a mindfulness-based approach to food and healing.

   - Insight into how personal challenges and a transformative retreat experience redirected her career towards a more fulfilling path.

2. The Impact of a Mindful Chef at Retreats:

   - Discussion on how Chef Jennifer’s approach to cooking enhances the retreat experience by aligning meal preparation with the overall theme and energy of the retreat.

   - The importance of having a chef who embodies mindfulness and how this influences the retreat atmosphere and participant satisfaction.

3. Expectations and Logistics of Working with a Retreat Chef:

   - Key considerations retreat hosts should keep in mind when hiring a chef, such as understanding the chef's food philosophy and ensuring it aligns with the retreat's purpose.

   - Practical aspects of integrating a chef into the retreat planning, including communication of dietary restrictions, meal planning, and scheduling.

4. Navigating Costs and Menu Planning:

   - How retreat hosts and chefs can collaborate to manage and anticipate food costs, which can vary due to factors like seasonal availability and rising market prices.

   - Strategies for creating flexible menus that can adapt to different budgets and guest preferences while maintaining high nutritional and taste standards.

5. The Role of Food in Healing and Connection:

   - Chef Jennifer shares how thoughtfully prepared meals can facilitate deeper connections among participants and support the healing processes intended during the retreat.

   - Examples of how specific dishes or ingredients can be used to enhance the thematic elements of a retreat, like fostering grounding or invigoration.

6. Advice for Retreat Hosts:

   - Tips on how to select the right chef for their retreat and the importance of gauging alignment and commitment.

   - Considerations on how to effectively manage the dynamic between the retreat team and the chef to ensure a cohesive and supportive environment for all.

Find Chef Jennifer at: https://www.fourdimensionretreat.com/about or info@fourdimensionretreat.com 

The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• The Retreat Ranch
• Join our private Facebook Group

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 | Google Podcast | Spotify

Connect with Shannon Jamail:

• Visit The Retreat Leaders Podcast
• Visit Retreat Ranch 
• Facebook Mind & Body Complete

In today's episode, we delve into how guest speakers and collaborators can profoundly enrich the retreat experience. We discuss the myriad benefits of their inclusion, practical steps for choosing the right collaborators, and the best ways to integrate them into your retreat’s programming effectively.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Benefits of Inviting Guest Speakers and Collaborators:

   - Expertise and Credibility: We explore how guest speakers bring depth of knowledge and credibility, enhancing the educational value of retreats.

   - Variety and Engagement: Discussion on how diverse perspectives keep the content engaging and ensure dynamic participant interaction.

   - Networking Opportunities: Insights into how speakers can expand the retreat’s reach and foster networking through their own networks.

   - Cross-Promotion: The advantages of using guest speakers for promotional efforts to widen audience reach and potentially reduce marketing costs.

2. Choosing the Right Guest Speakers and Collaborators:

   - Alignment with Retreat Goals: Importance of ensuring that the expertise of speakers aligns with the retreat’s objectives.

   - Audience Relevance: How to select speakers who resonate well with the target audience’s interests and needs.

   - Reputation and Reliability: The necessity of choosing professionals who are reliable and well-regarded.

   - Chemistry with Hosts: Why good rapport and mutual respect between hosts and guest speakers are crucial for a harmonious retreat environment.

3. Integrating Speakers into The Retreat’s Schedule:

   - Balanced Programming: Strategies for integrating sessions into the retreat schedule without overwhelming participants.

   - Preparation and Coordination: Tips on preparing speakers about the retreat’s format, expectations, and logistical details to ensure smooth delivery.

   - Feedback Mechanisms: Importance of establishing channels for feedback to assess and refine the contribution of speakers to the retreat.

4. Payment Models for Guest Speakers and Collaborators:

   - Overview of different compensation models including flat fees, profit sharing, per participant fees, and barter arrangements.

   - Discussion on factors affecting payment decisions such as whether speakers are local, their participation level in the retreat, and if their travel costs are covered.

5. Securing Agreements for Seamless Operations:

   - The critical role of formal agreements in clarifying expectations, ensuring legal protection, and facilitating effective communication.

   - Key Agreement Components: Detailed walkthrough of essential agreement terms such as scope of work, compensation details, communication protocols, intellectual property rights, cancellation policies, dispute resolution, and confidentiality clauses.

Highlighting the transformative impact guest speakers and collaborators can have on the success of a retreat. We emphasize the importance of careful selection, thoughtful integration, and clear agreements to maximize the benefits of their involvement.

The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• The Retreat Ranch
• Join our private Facebook Group

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 | Google Podcast | Spotify

Connect with Shannon Jamail:

• Visit The Retreat Leaders Podcast
• Visit Retreat Ranch 
• Facebook Mind & Body Complete

In today's episode, we explore the critical reasons why many retreats struggle to fill up and provide actionable strategies to overcome these challenges. From the importance of mindset and audience targeting to refining marketing techniques, we cover essential factors that impact the success of your retreat.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Belief and Mindset: The Foundation of Success

   - Discuss the crucial role of the retreat host's belief and mindset in the success of the event.

   - Highlight the negative impact of doubt and fear on retreat promotion and how cultivating a positive outlook can attract more attendees.

2. The Importance of Niching Down

   - Emphasize the necessity of targeting a specific audience to increase the appeal and relevance of the retreat.

   - Tips on how to identify and cater to a niche, enhancing the effectiveness of marketing efforts.

3. Crafting Compelling Copy

   - Explain the importance of marketing copy that resonates with the targeted niche by addressing their specific needs and pain points.

   - Suggest hiring an expert if necessary to ensure the message is impactful and persuasive.

4. Marketing Failures

   - Overview of common marketing mistakes that lead to poor enrollment, such as insufficient lead time and underutilizing marketing channels.

   - Recommendations for a comprehensive marketing strategy incorporating multiple platforms and starting the promotional activities well in advance.

5. Additional Reasons for Low Enrollment

   - Discuss other factors that can deter potential attendees, including pricing issues, poor timing, inadequate value proposition, and logistical challenges.

   - Strategies to address these issues, ensuring the retreat is accessible, competitively priced, and offers clear value.

Episode 166 on belief and mindset: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happy-hour-podcast/id1186563181?i=1000649181544 

Episode 156 on Niching down: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happy-hour-podcast/id1186563181?i=1000639316510 

Episode 172 on pricing: https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/30730688 

The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• The Retreat Ranch
• Join our private Facebook Group

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 | Google Podcast | Spotify

Connect with Shannon Jamail:

• Visit The Retreat Leaders Podcast
• Visit Retreat Ranch 
• Facebook Mind & Body Complete

In today’s episode, we sit down with Erin B. Haag, the mastermind behind Pricing Overhaul®, to explore the art and science of pricing retreats effectively. With her extensive experience in numerical analysis and pricing strategies, Erin offers valuable tips for retreat hosts to optimize their pricing for profitability.

Key Discussion Points:

Introduction to Erin Haag:

   - Background on Erin as a “Math Nerd,” serial entrepreneur, and the creator of Pricing Overhaul®.

   - Her journey in the financial realm, working with both large corporations and small businesses, leveraging her expertise in numbers and pricing.

Principles of Pricing Overhaul®:

   - Erin explains the fundamentals of her Pricing Overhaul® method and how it can be applied to retreat pricing.

   - The importance of shifting mindsets around money and math to establish a profitable pricing structure.

Strategies for Pricing Retreats:

   - Discussion on key factors to consider when pricing retreats, such as value proposition, target market, and operational costs.

   - Tips on analyzing the market and competition to set a competitive yet profitable price.

Common Pricing Mistakes:

   - Erin highlights frequent mistakes retreat hosts make in their pricing strategies and how to avoid them.

   - The balance between affordability for participants and sustainability for the retreat business.

Tips for Retreat Hosts:

   - Practical advice for retreat hosts on managing their finances, including budgeting, forecasting, and monitoring financial performance all with the intent to MAKE MORE MONEY.

The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• The Retreat Ranch
• Join our private Facebook Group

Connecting with Erin:

• Get your free top 5 tips: https://luxuryinbusinessretreats.mykajabi.com/top-5-tips-1 
• Check out her retreat leaders program: https://luxuryinbusinessretreats.com/join/ 
• Get a free sample of her best selling book: https://pricingoverhaul.mykajabi.com/freebooksample2024 

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 | Google Podcast | Spotify

Connect with Shannon Jamail:

• Visit The Retreat Leaders Podcast
• Visit Retreat Ranch 
• Facebook Mind & Body Complete

In this episode, we're joined by Chelsae Zirna, a facilitator and coach who guides people to their edge of discomfort, equipping them with the tools and resources to soften into their deepest truth, identity and purpose.  She is the founder of Chrysalis, a global community dedicated to elevating human consciousness. Through her events, she has empowered over 2500 in 30 countries with the tools to cultivate emotional liberation, radical self responsibility and inner authority. She also facilitates Authentic Relating internationally, specializing in intimacy and belonging. 

We discuss her amazing work she is doing, what happens on her retreats and her tips for retreat leaders (you don’t wanna miss this!).

Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• The Retreat Ranch
• Join our private Facebook Group

Connecting with Chelsae:

You can find her Luminescence Retreats at Retreat Ranch Jun 7-10 here: 

https://bookretreats.com/r/4-day-luminescence-rite-of-passage-retreat-in-austin-tx/

Or you can message her on Instagram for more info: 

https://www.instagram.com/chrysalisspace/

If you would like to work with her 1:1 you can find options here:

https://www.chelsaezirna.com/coaching

If you are interested in the introductory retreat, you can head to:

https://bookretreats.com/r/7-day-luminescence-rite-of-passage-retreat-in-guatemala

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 | Google Podcast | Spotify

Connect with Shannon Jamail:

• Visit The Retreat Leaders Podcast
• Visit Retreat Ranch 
• Facebook Mind & Body Complete