Fitness + Technology

Bryan O'Rourke: Fitness Industry Technology Council
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Welcome to the Fitness + Technology Podcast for club owners, operators, and fitness professionals! This show is your #1 trusted resource for the accelerating world of fitness technology. Each week, we bring you an expert interview with a global influencer at the crossroads of fitness and technology. You'll get the insights, tools, and inspiration you need to stay connected to the pulse of what matters most for your fitness business in the age of exponential technologies. This podcast is brought to you by the Fitness Industry Technology Council, who is mobilizing resources to drive the fitness industry forward, and representing leading companies and organizations to success through collaboration. This show is supported by Vedere Ventures, a boutique investment and advisory firm helping early mature and late stage enterprises succeed in a new era.

  1. 16H AGO

    Cutting Through The AI Hype Cycle In Fitness With Chris Sullivan

    In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke sits down with Chris Sullivan, recently CIO of Self Esteem Brands and now Lead Principal Advisor at Brillect. Together, they explore the realities of scaling technology in complex, franchise-driven environments. Drawing on his background in retail and digital innovation, Chris shares insights on navigating growth, overcoming operational challenges, and cutting through the noise of AI hype to uncover real business value. Now advising organizations through Brillect, he delivers strategic insights grounded in experience, research, and proven practices—helping companies drive digital transformation, harness data effectively, enhance operational excellence across domains, embrace AI innovation, and accelerate sustainable growth. The conversation also examines the fitness industry's current level of digital maturity, barriers to adoption, and the evolving role of technology in shaping member experiences, mergers, and future-ready organizations. FIT-C Innovation Outlook Panel: Explore the session details here: https://www.fibo.com/germany/en-gb/show-programme/Programme-Details.4776.260915.en--what's-coming-what's-missing-what's-next-the-fit_c-innovation-outlook.html Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.fittechcouncil.org/newsletter One Powerful Quote: 15:08: "This is a situation where you have to paint the train while it's moving." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:00: Bryan opens the discussion by introducing Chris's background and the key lessons from his experience. 7:22: Chris shares common themes and challenges he has encountered while scaling organizations within complex environments. 9:48: Bryan and Chris explore the noise and hype cycle surrounding AI, discussing the gap between theory and real-world business value. 15:02: Chris provides his perspective on the fitness industry's level of digital maturity and the key sources of friction in adoption. 17:13: Bryan asks Chris about the future of technology-enabled organizations and their impact on customers and members. 19:55: Chris discusses the technology requirements for mergers and consolidated organizations. 22:18: Chris outlines the key factors he believes will transform the fitness industry. 24:45: Chris shares his key takeaways and advice for listeners. 27:08: Chris discusses his current work and provides his contact information. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.sebrands.com/ http://www.brillect.com Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissullivan55422/ https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

    29 min

  2. MAR 24

    Gamification That Pays: Inside the Referral + Loyalty Tactics Fueling Growth LIVE From HFA Show 2026

    In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke presents "Gamification That Pays: Inside the Referral + Loyalty Tactics Fueling Growth," a panel discussion recorded live at the HFA Show in San Diego. Bryan is joined by Heather Malstaff, Director of Sales & Operations at Extraordinary Brands; Martin Johns, Owner and General Manager of Raintree Athletic Club; and Amie Boring, Technical Solutions Consultant at Chuze Fitness. Together, they examine how referral programs, loyalty strategies, and gamified campaigns are being leveraged to shape member behavior and accelerate sustainable growth. Drawing on real-world case studies and industry experience, the panelists share key insights and practical frameworks that can be implemented immediately—whether you are launching your first incentive program or optimizing an existing strategy. One Powerful Quote: 14:43: "Technology is not a surrogate for the personal touch that inspires referrals."  4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 5:30: Bryan opens the discussion by asking Heather to outline the key elements of developing effective referral and reward programs. 10:30: Bryan asks Martin to discuss the systems and solutions required to successfully implement and scale referral and incentive initiatives. 15:15: Bryan asks Amy to share her perspective on critical considerations for deploying and integrating technology stacks that support these programs. 18:49: The panel explores the challenges associated with technology adoption and how organizations can effectively navigate implementation barriers. 21:13: The panel addresses the financial dimensions of these strategies, including return on investment and customer acquisition cost considerations. 28:22: Bryan and the panel examine the role of gamification in driving motivation and engagement within referral and rewards programs. 34:50: The panel highlights the importance of digital interactions and personalization in shaping the customer journey and improving attribution. Bullet List of Resources: https://info.perkville.com/ https://raintreeathleticclub.com/ www.extraordinarybrands.com https://chuzefitness.com/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-johns-b9ab2a24/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherdarran/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/amie-boring/ https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

    41 min

  3. MAR 12

    Operate Fit: Building Better Systems For Nonprofits With Jim Paro

    In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Jim Paro, Founder of Operate Fit, to the show. Operate Fit is a platform designed to help community-focused organizations modernize how they manage their operations. By replacing paper forms, scattered spreadsheets, and manual processes with centralized digital workflows, the platform helps facilities save time, reduce operational risk, and maintain compliance. In this conversation, Jim joins Bryan to discuss the operational challenges many facilities face today, why digitizing workflows is becoming essential for safety and compliance, and how better systems can help organizations run more efficiently while focusing on delivering great member experiences. One Powerful Quote: 17:03: "If we hadn't adjusted our course based on feedback and things we learned from our customers, I don't think we would be as successful." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:04: Jim begins the conversation by sharing his professional background and his experience working with YMCA organizations. 5:44: Jim discusses the differences in innovation and technology adoption between commercial, for-profit organizations and nonprofit entities. 7:33: Jim introduces Operate Fit and explains how the platform was developed as a technology solution designed specifically for nonprofit organizations. 9:30: Jim expands on the functionality of Operate Fit, highlighting its practical applications and operational benefits for nonprofits. 13:41: Jim outlines some of the most significant challenges nonprofits face when adopting new technologies. 16:44: Jim concludes by sharing key insights and advice for listeners on leadership, innovation, and technology adoption in mission-driven organizations. Bullet List of Resources: https://operate.fit/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimparo/ https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

    20 min

  4. MAR 10

    Perkville: Driving Loyalty & Retention Innovation With Sunil Saha

    In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Sunil Saha back to the show. Sunil is the Co-Founder and CEO of Perkville, a customer rewards and referral platform that integrates with e-commerce, point-of-sale, membership, and scheduling systems to deliver a seamless experience that drives engagement, referrals, and long-term loyalty. In this conversation, Sunil joins Bryan to explore member engagement strategies, gamification, system integration, and the evolving role of technology in strengthening customer relationships across the fitness industry. RSVP for FITC Reception: https://fitcmeetupreception.rsvpify.com One Powerful Quote: 20:42: "If you get too removed, then you start to lose insight on what's really important for the business." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 4:18: Sunil discusses the opportunities and challenges surrounding the practical application of technology within fitness operations. 8:04: Sunil talks about common execution hurdles and the shared barriers enterprises face when implementing new systems. 14:56: Bryan and Sunil discuss the future of the industry, capital allocation, and the evolving ROI of operational transformation. 20:19: Sunil shares key takeaways and strategic advice for operators navigating technology adoption. Bullet List of Resources: https://info.perkville.com/ https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-schedule Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunilsaha/ https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

    23 min

  5. MAR 5

    The Research Behind The Fitness Membership Divide With Melissa Rodriguez

    In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Melissa Rodriguez, a market research leader in the fitness industry. Melissa has worked with organizations including HFA and Mindbody and has conducted numerous independent research initiatives. She recently founded her own firm, Datagonist, where she combines practitioner experience with research leadership to deliver strategic insights to the industry. Datagonist focuses on market dynamics and consumer behavior across the fitness and wellness landscape, providing data-driven insights that help operators, technology companies, equipment suppliers, and industry stakeholders better understand their markets and make informed decisions. Most recently, the Fitness Industry Technology Council (FITC) engaged Melissa and Datagonist to conduct a comprehensive research report on the U.S. marketplace, examining the evolving relationship between technology adoption and membership trends. In this conversation, Melissa joins Bryan to unpack the findings and discuss what they mean for the future of fitness. RSVP for FITC Reception: https://fitcmeetupreception.rsvpify.com One Powerful Quote: 12:51: "The fitness club is a well-being hub now. It's not just a place to exercise." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:13: Bryan opens the discussion with Melissa, outlining the scope and objectives of her research. 5:56: Bryan and Melissa dive deeper into key findings and the nuanced insights within the report. 8:47: Melissa shares her perspective on technology adoption in light of the data revealed in the study. 10:15: Melissa speaks on the barriers to entry for "never-members" and the industry's persistent enjoyment gap. 12:48: Melissa talks about rethinking and redefining what a fitness facility represents in today's marketplace. 14:05: Melissa highlights the most surprising finding from the research. 17:13: Melissa shares her contact information and how to learn more about Datagonist. Bullet List of Resources: https://datagonist.kit.com/datagonist Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissarodriguezmba/ Melissa@exerciseboston.com https://x.com/exerciseboston https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

    19 min

  6. MAR 3

    FitnessKPI Webinar: Adopting Proven AI Management Tools In Your Gym Operation With Pablo Viñaspre

    In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke presents his webinar, "Adopting Proven AI Management Tools in Your Gym Operation," alongside Pablo Viñaspre of FitnessKPI. This in-depth session explores how fitness operators can implement practical AI solutions to streamline staff workflows, personalize member experiences, optimize marketing and sales performance, and improve retention and profitability. Bryan and Pablo break down which AI tools are delivering measurable results today, how to integrate them into existing systems, and how to responsibly scale AI across both single-site and multi-site operations. Designed for gym owners, executives, and industry professionals, this session provides actionable insights to help transform AI from industry hype into meaningful operational impact. One Powerful Quote: 29:27: "Another mistake is thinking that the customer journey is only to improve retention." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:10: Bryan opens the discussion with Pablo on adopting AI tools today and addresses the confusion many operators face regarding real-world applicability. 12:19: Pablo outlines practical implementation strategies and highlights where operators are successfully deploying AI in sales, lead conversion, operations, and analytics automation. 17:45: Bryan and Pablo discuss high-impact use cases, particularly automating repetitive tasks to improve efficiency and consistency. 23:00: Bryan and Pablo speak on applying AI across the customer journey and mapping touch points to enhance personalization and engagement. 31:44: Pablo speaks on if humans are better than AI with emotional intelligence. 36:00: Pablo speaks on why many operators fail to properly map their customer journey and how AI exposes operational gaps. Bullet List of Resources: https://fitness-kpi.com/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pabloviñaspre/ https://x.com/PabloVinaspre https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

    39 min

  7. FEB 16

    Agentic AI And The Future Of Fitness: A Conversation With Steffie Bryant

    In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Steffie Bryant to the show. Steffie brings a strong background in gym operations, sales, and currently serves as President of Keepme.ai, an AI-powered sales and marketing CRM platform designed specifically for the fitness industry. Since its launch in April 2019, Keepme.ai has expanded globally, supporting hundreds of fitness clubs in driving member acquisition, engagement, and retention. In this conversation, Bryan and Steffie explore the evolution of artificial intelligence, with a particular focus on agentic AI, autonomous agents, and the broader market implications of these emerging technologies. Together, they discuss how agentic tools are being deployed, what their adoption means for fitness operators, and how AI-driven systems are reshaping workflows, roles, and career trajectories across the industry. One Powerful Quote: 14:41: "It's better to ask for forgiveness than permission at times." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:35: Bryan introduces Steffie's professional background and her journey from gym operations to leading a global AI platform. 6:00: Bryan and Steffie discuss agentic AI tools and their practical applications within fitness businesses. 10:49: Steffie shares insights on deploying agentic tools and their implications for competitive marketplaces. 12:35: Steffie has a forward-looking conversation on how AI adoption will transform jobs and organizational structures. 14:16: Steffie offers career advice and strategic guidance for professionals navigating rapid technological change. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.keepme.ai/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steffie-bryant-0b577271/ https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

    16 min

  8. FEB 9

    FitnessKPI Webinar: Strategies For Implementing Data Solutions For Gym Chains With Pablo Viñaspre

    In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke shares his recent webinar, "Strategies For Implementing Data Solutions For Gym Chains," presented alongside Pablo Viñaspre, Founder and CEO of FitnessKPI. This in-depth session examines proven strategies for successfully implementing data solutions across multi-site gym operations. Bryan and Pablo discuss how operators can adopt and scale analytics to improve member retention, enhance pricing strategies, and uncover new revenue opportunities. Designed for multi-site executives and industry leaders, this conversation provides practical, actionable guidance to help transform data into consistent, measurable business performance. One Powerful Quote: 15:58: "Focus beats sophistication always."  4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:04: Bryan opens the discussion by reframing data as a business decision challenge — not a technology project but an operating model transformation. 10:20: Bryan and Pablo address the paradox of "more data," highlighting common implementation pitfalls, governance challenges, and the tendency to focus on reporting errors instead of driving action. 15:33: Bryan and Pablo discuss the importance of focusing on the key drivers that materially impact outcomes. 22:01: Bryan and Pablo speak on finding the balance between company-wide consistency and local autonomy with avoiding over-governance that slows execution. 27:12: Pablo outlines a realistic game plan for data implementation that prioritizes action and measurable results. 34:21: Pablo shares his three core takeaways: addressing technology limitations, maintaining focus, and committing to action. 36:45: Bryan closes with his perspective on the future of data implementation and forward-thinking leadership within the fitness industry. Bullet List of Resources: https://fitness-kpi.com/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pabloviñaspre/ https://x.com/PabloVinaspre https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

    42 min
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4.9
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About

Welcome to the Fitness + Technology Podcast for club owners, operators, and fitness professionals! This show is your #1 trusted resource for the accelerating world of fitness technology. Each week, we bring you an expert interview with a global influencer at the crossroads of fitness and technology. You'll get the insights, tools, and inspiration you need to stay connected to the pulse of what matters most for your fitness business in the age of exponential technologies. This podcast is brought to you by the Fitness Industry Technology Council, who is mobilizing resources to drive the fitness industry forward, and representing leading companies and organizations to success through collaboration. This show is supported by Vedere Ventures, a boutique investment and advisory firm helping early mature and late stage enterprises succeed in a new era.

Information

  • Creator
    Bryan O'Rourke: Fitness Industry Technology Council
  • Years Active
    2016 - 2026
  • Episodes
    206
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © FIT-C
  • Show Website
    Fitness + Technology

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