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The Retreat Leaders Podcast

The Retreat Leaders Podcast

Von: Shannon Jamail
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 Welcome to your go-to podcast for all things retreat leadership - where the team behind Retreat Ranch shares real talk, expert strategy, and behind-the-scenes stories to help you run a profitable and powerful retreat business. From crafting unforgettable guest experiences to avoiding expensive mistakes, we cover it all with a mix of wisdom, wit, and a little woo. Whether you're a seasoned retreat leader, venue owner, or dreaming of launching your first event, this show is your compass to build, grow, and thrive in the retreat world. Learn more at https://theretreatleadersplaybook.com/ *Formerly the Happy Hour Podcast Management & Leadership Persönliche Entwicklung Persönlicher Erfolg Ökonomie
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  • EP 257 Belonging Is the New Luxury: Why Retreats Matter More Than Ever with Dan Berger

    EP 257 Belonging Is the New Luxury: Why Retreats Matter More Than Ever with Dan Berger
    Feb 5 2026
    In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon sits down with Dan Berger to talk about something the retreat industry doesn't discuss nearly enough: belonging. Dan shares his personal journey—from selling his event-planning software company for $100M, to grappling with his own sense of belonging, to ultimately creating Assemble Boise, a retreat and gathering space intentionally designed for human connection. Together, Shannon and Dan dive into: Why men are facing a serious belonging and mental health crisisHow retreats can act as temporary communities that create lasting impactWhy small, intimate spaces outperform big, flashy experiencesHow retreat leaders can design environments that feel safe, connective, and meaningfulAnd why belonging—not content—is what people are actually paying for This is a grounded, honest conversation about the responsibility retreat leaders hold and the opportunity they have to create spaces that genuinely change lives. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why people aren't craving more content—they're craving connectionHow Dan's "belonging tank" framework applies directly to retreat designThe four belonging personas every retreat leader should understandWhy men's retreats and men's groups are more needed now than everHow intentional hospitality creates trust, safety, and transformationWhat post-COVID human connection really looks like (and why retreats are booming) Notable Concepts Discussed The "Belonging Crisis," especially among menRetreats as containers for community, not just experiencesSmall-group power vs. large-scale eventsEthical considerations around AI and preserving human-made experiencesDesigning spaces that do the emotional work before the programming begins Email Dan to get a free copy of his book, or to book his amazing retreat center and get a 3rd night free: dan@assemblehospitality.com Buy Dan's Book here: https://amzn.to/4qvuyts About Dan Berger Dan J. Berger is the author of The Quest: The Definitive Guide to Finding Belonging, and the CEO of Assemble Hospitality Group. He previously sold his SaaS company, Social Tables, for $100M. He lives in Boise, ID with his wife and daughter. Connect with Dan here: https://assembleboise.com/ The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host RetreatsJoin our private Facebook GroupTop 5 Marketing Tools Free GuideGet your legal docs for retreats Join Shannon in Denver at the Retreat Industry Forum Join our LinkedIn Group Apply to be a guest on our show 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 ------- TIMESTAMPS Dan's Background and Journey (00:01:22) Dan shares his personal history, adoption, move from Israel, hospitality career, and founding a software company. Writing the Book on Belonging (00:02:01) Dan discusses writing his book about belonging and its self-help/academic approach. Importance of Belonging in Retreats (00:03:01) Shannon and Dan explore why belonging is central to retreats and how retreats foster community. Men's Groups and Community Building (00:04:10) Dan describes his men's group, its structure, and how it builds ongoing relationships. Men's Belonging Crisis (00:05:53) Dan addresses the challenges men face with belonging, emotional expression, and the need for safe spaces. Retreats as Solutions for Men (00:08:13) Discussion on how retreats can help men, and Dan's hesitation about hosting men's retreats. Benefits of Extended Retreats (00:09:10) Shannon explains the deeper impact of multi-day retreats versus short meetings. Belonging Frameworks for Retreats (00:09:48) Dan introduces two frameworks from his book: the "belonging tank" and four belonging personas. Book Offer and Belonging Differences (00:12:09) Dan offers a free book to listeners and discusses gender differences in belonging. Motivation for Opening a Retreat Center (00:13:59) Dan explains his shift from corporate retreats to opening a dedicated retreat facility. Design and Features of The Symbol Boise (00:17:25) Dan details the layout, amenities, and unique aspects of his Boise retreat center. Transparency and Marketing for Retreat Leaders (00:18:40) Shannon praises the clarity and marketing of Dan's facility for retreat organizers. Special Offer for Retreat Leaders (00:19:41) Dan shares a booking discount and explains the profitability and versatility of his space. Closing and Resources (00:21:00) Shannon wraps up, shares links to Dan's resources, and thanks him for joining.
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    22 Min.
  • EP 256 Building Pilates Retreats in Europe: Creativity, Logistics, and Expansion with Bessie Refalo

    EP 256 Building Pilates Retreats in Europe: Creativity, Logistics, and Expansion with Bessie Refalo
    Jan 29 2026
    In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon sits down with Bessie Refalo, a yoga and Pilates retreat leader who is carving out a unique lane in the wellness retreat industry - reformer Pilates retreats in Europe. Bessie shares the behind-the-scenes reality of creating retreats that require specialized equipment, including the challenges of finding venues with reformer Pilates machines and the creative solutions she's used to make her retreats possible. From transporting reformers by lorry in Portugal to discovering bespoke studios in Italy, this conversation is a masterclass in persistence, adaptability, and thinking beyond traditional retreat models. Shannon and Bessie also discuss the rapid growth of the wellness retreat industry, the realities of hosting retreats in Europe, and why networking, flexibility, and on-the-ground familiarity are essential for successful international retreats. This episode is a must-listen for retreat leaders who want to expand internationally, host niche retreats, or navigate complex logistics without giving up on their vision. Key Takeaways Niche retreats (like reformer Pilates) require creativity, persistence, and flexibility.Hosting retreats with specialized equipment presents challenges - but solutions exist.Europe offers strong appeal for US-based retreat guests due to accessibility and travel interest.Building relationships with local studios and partners is key to international retreat success.Logistics, cultural differences, and local business hours matter more than most hosts expect.Networking and in-person learning accelerate retreat growth and confidence.Fully booked retreats are built through clarity, demand, and aligned offerings - not shortcuts. About Bessie Refalo Bessie Refalo is a yoga and Pilates instructor and retreat leader specializing in wellness retreats that combine movement, travel, and intentional experiences. Known for her innovative approach to reformer Pilates retreats, Bessie creates immersive international retreats that prioritize high-quality instruction, thoughtful locations, and meaningful connection. Connect with Bessie here: www.bessierefalo.com The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host RetreatsJoin our private Facebook GroupTop 5 Marketing Tools Free GuideGet your legal docs for retreats Join Shannon in Denver at the Retreat Industry Forum Join our LinkedIn Group Apply to be a guest on our show 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 ----- TIMESTAMPS Bessy's Background and Journey (00:01:36) Bessy shares her background, the Bessy Raffaello Method, and her entry into retreats. Launching Retreats with Limited Resources (00:02:21) Discussion on starting retreats without a clear blueprint or abundant resources. Personal Motivation and Reformer Retreat Challenges (00:03:04) Bessy describes her inspiration and the unique challenges of hosting reformer Pilates retreats. Finding Venues and Logistics of Reformers (00:04:03) Exploring the difficulty of finding venues with reformer machines and the logistics involved. Pilates Reformer Popularity and Industry Growth (00:06:15) Conversation about the booming Pilates and wellness industry and its opportunities. Venue Search and Forming Partnerships (00:07:36) Bessy details her search for venues, challenges with unresponsive owners, and finding her business partner in Portugal. First Retreat Execution and Overcoming Obstacles (00:09:12) How Bessy and her partner transported reformers and handled unexpected issues during their first retreat. Expanding to Italy and Other Locations (00:10:00) Bessy discusses finding a unique venue in Italy and her desire to expand to more locations. Retreat Industry Forum Announcement (00:11:36) Shannon announces the upcoming Retreat Industry Forum event in Denver. Venue Owner Mindset and Cultural Differences (00:13:27) Discussion about the challenges of working with European venues and cultural differences in business practices. Importance of Site Visits and Local Culture (00:15:19) Advice on visiting retreat locations and understanding local customs and schedules. Budgeting and Financial Realities (00:17:14) Bessy shares lessons on budgeting, accounting for lost income, and the importance of honest financial planning. Retreat Agenda Planning and Avoiding Over-Scheduling (00:19:21) Tips on not overpacking retreat agendas and allowing space for rest and integration. Group Energy and Audience Fit (00:21:32) The importance of group dynamics, attracting the right participants, and managing energy drains. Attracting and Repelling the Right Clients (00:23:27) Shannon and Bessy discuss the value of attracting ideal clients and repelling those who aren't a good fit. Investing in Training and Community (00:...
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    32 Min.
  • EP 255 Building a Soul-Led Retreat Business While Working Full-Time with Amy Jaggers

    EP 255 Building a Soul-Led Retreat Business While Working Full-Time with Amy Jaggers
    Jan 22 2026
    In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon sits down with Amy Jaggers, a coach and retreat leader who is building a soul-led retreat business while still working full-time. Amy shares how she helps professionals step off autopilot and reconnect with balance, clarity, and purpose through meditation, mindfulness practices, retreats, and wellbeing circles. She opens up about what it really looks like to grow a retreat business alongside a demanding career — including boundaries, time management, and integrating her "soul work" into her corporate role. Together, Shannon and Amy discuss long-term vision, retreat center dreams, the power of visualization, and why retreat leaders must invest in their own development before leading others. This episode is especially powerful for retreat leaders who are still in a full-time job but feel deeply called to build something meaningful and sustainable on the side. Key Takeaways You can build a retreat business while working full-time — with structure and boundaries.Integrating wellbeing and mindfulness into your day job can strengthen both worlds.Visual planning, time blocking, and templated systems are essential for sustainability.Soul-led work doesn't require quitting your job overnight — small, consistent steps matter.Investing in your own training and leadership development is non-negotiable as a retreat host.Long-term visions (like owning a retreat center) are built through patience and intention.Familiarity with your retreat location is a key marker of responsible leadership. About Amy Jaggers Amy Jaggers is a coach and facilitator who helps professionals turn awareness into meaningful action through coaching, meditation, retreats, and facilitated circles. Her work creates intentional space for individuals to pause, reconnect, and step off autopilot, supporting greater balance, clarity, and purpose. Amy's approach is grounded in building resilience and helping people live and lead with greater intention in both their personal and professional lives. Connect with Amy here: https://lavidalagom.com/ and check out her retreat here: https://lavidalagom.com/meditationmindfulness/ The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host RetreatsJoin our private Facebook GroupTop 5 Marketing Tools Free GuideGet your legal docs for retreats Join Shannon in Denver at the Retreat Industry Forum Join our LinkedIn Group Apply to be a guest on our show 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 ----- TIMESTAMPS Amy's Background & Soul Work (00:01:17) Amy shares her professional background, her focus on mindfulness, and her retreat and wellbeing circles. Balancing Full-Time Work & Retreat Business (00:02:09) Discussion on juggling a full-time job with building a retreat business, and integrating soul work into her career. Wellbeing Circles at Work (00:03:13) Amy explains hosting wellbeing circles for colleagues and how it supports both her job and retreat business. Challenges & Boundaries (00:04:41) Amy discusses the importance of schedules, boundaries, and processes to balance both roles. Finding Fulfillment in Both Roles (00:05:06) Amy reflects on the fulfillment she gets from both her day job and her retreat business. Target Audience & Their Needs (00:06:25) Amy describes her colleagues' challenges and the need for wellbeing practices. Scheduling & Time Management Practices (00:08:29) Amy shares her practical strategies for managing time and tasks for her soul business. Retreat Industry Forum Announcement (00:10:00) Shannon promotes the upcoming Retreat Industry Forum event in Denver. Long-Term Goals & Vision (00:11:33) Amy outlines her goal to own a retreat venue and her vision for the future. Visualization & Vision Boards (00:12:33) Shannon and Amy discuss the power of vision boards, drawing out goals, and visual manifestation. Hospitality Background & Inspiration (00:14:08) Amy talks about her hospitality experience and how it informs her retreat vision. Vision Board Workshop & Manifestation (00:14:38) Amy mentions her upcoming vision board workshop and the importance of seeing goals regularly. Visualization Practices for Success (00:15:33) Shannon shares techniques for visualizing and feeling future success. Building the Soul Business Step by Step (00:17:06) Amy and Shannon discuss the importance of incremental progress and baby steps. Investing in Education & Training (00:18:16) Amy emphasizes the value of professional training and investing in oneself as a retreat leader. Networking & Community in Retreat Leadership (00:19:51) Amy highlights the benefits of networking and community from attending workshops and trainings. Professionalism & Industry Standards (00:21:38) Amy calls for higher standards and more ...
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    28 Min.
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