The Gym Owners Forum Podcast

The Gym Owners Forum
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The Gym Owners Forum is a podcast created by gym owners, for gym owners! Our community provides a free space for independent health club owners and fitness business owners to get invaluable advice and support to grow their clubs and thrive. Led by data and experiences compiled from hundreds of clubs throughout the UK and Europe, you can get the latest news and guidance, all brought together from the best our industry has to offer.

  1. FEB 23

    Episode #12 - World Tours and Men's Health Covers - How Trust, Timing and Simplicity Create Real Transformation

    In this episode of the Gym Owners Forum podcast, Tom is joined on the road at MK Healthhub by Matt Kendrick, founder of MK Healthhub and MK Reformed, to explore what it really takes to build a brand that reaches far beyond the four walls of your gym. Matt shares the story behind touring the world as Ed Sheeran’s personal trainer, supporting him throughout a global tour across Dubai, India, China, the United States, and Europe, and ultimately helping him land a record breaking Men’s Health cover. The conversation unpacks how that opportunity was not luck, but the result of decades of relationship building, trust, consistent standards, and a willingness to put value into the world before expecting anything in return. The episode dives into personal brand development, building credibility in high pressure environments, and why confidentiality, professionalism, and emotional intelligence matter more than social media presence. Matt explains how positioning yourself as a problem solver rather than just a trainer opens doors, and why packaging your expertise in a way that makes life easier for clients is often the real differentiator. They also explore the evolution of the fitness industry, from boutique training models to wellness hubs, biohacking trends, recovery spaces, and the growing need for education that is simple, practical, and accessible. Matt reflects on what makes a great personal trainer today, why ego is the enemy of progress, and why caring more about the person in front of you than yourself is still the ultimate competitive advantage. If you are a gym owner or coach looking to expand your influence, build a stronger brand, and future proof your business in an evolving wellness landscape, this episode offers powerful perspective and practical lessons. FOLLOW FOR MORE HELP & SUPPORT...Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gym_owners_forum/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1941055312704468Website: https://gymownersforum.com/Email: info@gymownersforum.com

    33 min
  2. Episode #11 - How Systems and Finding Support Revolutionised Our Facility

    FEB 9

    Episode #11 - How Systems and Finding Support Revolutionised Our Facility

    In this episode of the Gym Owners Forum podcast, Tom is joined by Harry Morris, co owner of FS46, a small group personal training gym based just outside Birmingham. Harry shares the real story behind scaling a gym sustainably through systems, community, and data led decision making. The conversation explores how FS46 doubled both revenue and membership numbers in a single year, followed by consecutive years of strong growth, by stepping away from gut driven decisions and building clear processes across marketing, sales, operations, client experience, and team development. Harry explains why small group personal training at a one to six ratio creates the perfect balance between personalisation and profitability, and how paid trials, clear onboarding systems, and human led sales conversations dramatically improve conversion and retention. He also breaks down how tracking key metrics weekly allows gym owners to make confident decisions rather than reacting emotionally to short term fluctuations. A major theme of the episode is community. Harry shares how FS46 protects its culture through intentional onboarding, local partnerships, and genuine human connection, including why not every prospective member is the right fit and how saying no can be essential for long term success. The discussion also covers rebranding FS46, simplifying social media, prioritising local business relationships, and using community driven partnerships to create new revenue streams without increasing operational pressure. If you are a gym owner or fitness business operator looking to build a stronger, more profitable gym through systems, data, and community rather than burnout and guesswork, this episode offers practical insights you can apply immediately. FOLLOW FOR MORE HELP & SUPPORT... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gym_owners_forum/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1941055312704468 Website: https://gymownersforum.com/ Email: info@gymownersforum.com

    50 min

  3. JAN 28

    Episode #10 - Using the science of sales to understand and support your members better

    In this episode of the Gym Owners Forum podcast, Tom is joined by James Knight, also known as Coach J, to explore the psychology behind sales, communication, and connection inside gyms. James brings a rare blend of experience across leadership, IT systems, coaching, and hypnotherapy to explain why gyms are not just fitness spaces, but people businesses. The conversation focuses on how language, awareness, and small daily behaviours can completely change the way members feel, engage, and stay loyal long term. Together they discuss how asking better questions leads to better outcomes, why understanding internal and external language matters in sales, and how gym owners can improve retention and secondary spend without pressure or manipulation. James also shares powerful insights into goal setting, visualisation, self reflection, and why community and human connection are the true drivers of growth. This episode is a reminder that the most successful gyms are not built on equipment or pricing, but on trust, care, and the way people are made to feel every time they walk through the door. If you are a gym owner, coach, or operator looking to improve communication, build stronger relationships with members, and create a more profitable and people focused business, this conversation is essential listening. FOLLOW FOR MORE HELP & SUPPORT...Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gym_owners_forum/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1941055312704468Website: https://gymownersforum.com/Email: info@gymownersforum.com

    54 min

  4. 12/22/2025

    Episode #9 - The Power of Secondary Spend - How improving member wellbeing can improve their spend in your gym

    In this episode of the Gym Owners Forum podcast, Tom is joined by Craig Allen, founder of GSN Gold Standard Nutrition, to explore how gym owners can unlock powerful secondary revenue streams while strengthening member experience and community. Craig shares the story behind GSN’s growth from a simple food solution built in a garage to a nationwide brand stocked in over 500 gyms across the UK. Along the way, GSN has helped gym owners generate more than £10 million in additional revenue by solving a real problem for members with convenient, high quality nutrition. The conversation dives into the importance of partnerships built on trust, why secondary spend is one of the most underused opportunities in the gym industry, and how products placed correctly can improve both profitability and retention without relying on new member acquisition. Craig also discusses the mindset behind long term growth, the lessons learned from working with major gym brands such as Everlast and Ultraflex, and why authenticity, consistency, and relationships matter more than quick wins. If you are a gym owner, fitness entrepreneur, or operator looking to increase revenue without adding operational complexity, this episode offers practical insight from someone who has built one of the most trusted supplier brands in UK fitness. FOLLOW FOR MORE HELP & SUPPORT... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gym_owners_forum/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1941055312704468 Website: https://gymownersforum.com/ Email: info@gymownersforum.com

    29 min

  5. 12/08/2025

    Episode #8 - Beyond The Feed: Growing A Gym Takes More Than Social Media Posts

    In this episode of the Gym Owners Forum podcast, Tom sits down with Olivia Stott, Account Manager at Mary, a digital marketing agency specialising in the health and fitness sector. Together they explore how gym owners can move beyond surface-level marketing and start building sustainable strategies that actually drive revenue and long-term member retention.Olivia, a former personal trainer turned marketing specialist, shares her journey from the gym floor to leading campaigns for some of the most recognisable fitness brands in the UK. She breaks down the difference between short-term activation and long-term brand building, explaining how the two must work together to create a complete marketing strategy.From understanding the “long and short of it” to developing a distinctive brand identity, Olivia and Tom discuss why so many gyms still rely solely on social media and overlook essential areas like data analysis, SEO, website optimisation, and member experience. They also talk about how community-driven events, storytelling, and consistency in brand design can help gyms stand out in a competitive industry.If you are a gym owner, marketer, or fitness entrepreneur looking to understand what really drives growth in 2025, this episode is full of practical insight and proven frameworks you can start applying right away.Learn more about Mary’s work in the health and fitness space here:https://mary.co.uk/sectors/health-and-fitness/FOLLOW FOR MORE HELP & SUPPORT...Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gym_owners_forum/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1941055312704468Website: https://gymownersforum.com/Email: info@gymownersforum.com

    53 min
  6. Episode #7 - Gym Owners Share Their Stories At Elevate Live 2025

    11/26/2025

    Episode #7 - Gym Owners Share Their Stories At Elevate Live 2025

    In this special episode of the Gym Owners Forum podcast, Tom takes the show on the road to Elevate 2025 – the UK’s leading fitness and wellness trade event. Across a packed day of interviews, he speaks with some of the most inspiring voices shaping the future of gyms, health clubs, and wellness businesses.From international fitness presenter Faye Edwards, who shares her insights on building deeper connections through group exercise and community, to Carl Fanning, the insurance expert helping gym owners protect what they have built, each guest brings valuable lessons and real-world experience.Other highlights include Harry from Fitness Studio 46 on defining your niche and tripling revenue, Twin Labs on how digital twins are revolutionising gym data analytics, and Zapgo on how EV charging partnerships can generate new income for gym owners. Plus, conversations with Michael Gunning on inclusion and representation in sport, Tunde from Colchester Council on building community-focused facilities, and Stephen Cook from Pegasus Gym on integrating wellness, recovery, and technology into one seamless member experience.Recorded live from the show floor, this episode captures authentic stories, practical advice, and emerging trends from every corner of the industry. If you are a gym owner, fitness entrepreneur, or wellness professional looking to grow your business and connect with like-minded leaders, this is essential listening. FOLLOW FOR MORE HELP & SUPPORT... Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/gym_owners_forum/⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1941055312704468⁠⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://gymownersforum.com/⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠⁠info@gymownersforum.com

    1h 1m
  7. Episode #6.2 - More Chat With Phil Learney: How To Avoid Burnout As A Fitness Business Owner

    07/09/2025

    Episode #6.2 - More Chat With Phil Learney: How To Avoid Burnout As A Fitness Business Owner

    In this episode of The Gym Owners Forum Podcast, Tom sits down with industry veteran Phil Learney for a deep-dive into the evolution of the fitness and wellness space. From circadian rhythms to post-pandemic business resilience, this conversation explores how our biology, habits, and environments impact performance—not just in the gym, but in everyday life. Phil explains why routine matters more than motivation, how gyms can take inspiration from hotel service models, and why the industry’s shift toward hybrid working, wellness-centred design, and inclusivity is here to stay. We also discuss the surprising ways COVID reshaped the way we work and train, the role of new tools like GLP-1 in accessibility, and why structure—not perfection—is the key to long-term wellbeing.Whether you're a gym owner, coach, or just someone passionate about the future of fitness, this is an episode you won't want to miss. FOLLOW FOR MORE HELP & SUPPORT... Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/gym_owners_forum/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1941055312704468⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://gymownersforum.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@gymownersforum.com

    53 min
  8. Episode #6.1 - A Chat With Phil Learney: Turning A Passion For Fitness Into Business Success

    06/02/2025

    Episode #6.1 - A Chat With Phil Learney: Turning A Passion For Fitness Into Business Success

    In this special two-part episode of The Gym Owners Forum Podcast, we’re joined by one of the UK fitness industry’s most respected and experienced voices - Phil Learney. With over 25 years in the game, Phil has worked as a coach, educator, business mentor and co-founder of the Advanced Coaching Academy. Known for his no-nonsense approach and deep industry insight, he’s helped thousands of fitness professionals turn their skills into sustainable careers. In Part 1 of our chat, we dive into Phil’s journey, from his early days in the industry to building a career that blends coaching expertise with business acumen. We also throw Phil into our version of Room 101, where he calls out the biggest red flags and common pitfalls in running a fitness business. Expect real talk, sharp insights, and practical advice as we explore: How Phil transitioned from personal training to coaching coaches The early lessons that shaped his business mindset What NOT to do when running a gym How passion for fitness must evolve into structured, strategic thinking to succeed Whether you’re a seasoned gym owner or just getting started, this episode is packed with wisdom you can take straight back to your business. Don’t miss Part 2 – coming soon! FOLLOW FOR MORE HELP & SUPPORT... Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/gym_owners_forum/⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/1941055312704468⁠⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://gymownersforum.com/⁠⁠⁠ Email: ⁠⁠⁠info@gymownersforum.com

    49 min
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About

The Gym Owners Forum is a podcast created by gym owners, for gym owners! Our community provides a free space for independent health club owners and fitness business owners to get invaluable advice and support to grow their clubs and thrive. Led by data and experiences compiled from hundreds of clubs throughout the UK and Europe, you can get the latest news and guidance, all brought together from the best our industry has to offer.

Information

  • Creator
    The Gym Owners Forum
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The Gym Owners Forum
  • Show Website
    The Gym Owners Forum Podcast