EP 247 Redefining Tantra and Running a Profitable Retreat Business with Justin Gottlieb

In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon sits down with Justin Gottlieb - a sexual freedom coach, Tantra practitioner, and retreat host who transitioned from the corporate world to full-time facilitation. Together, they unpack what Tantra really is (and isn’t), how to maintain integrity in intimate retreat settings, and why it’s time for more men to step into leadership roles in the wellness and retreat space.

Justin shares how he and his co-facilitator Leola create transformational retreats rooted in safety, consent, and empowerment - and how they’ve built a sustainable retreat business model that honors both healing and profitability.

If you’ve ever been curious about Tantra, gender balance in leadership, or how to elevate the professionalism of your retreat business, this episode is a must-listen.

 

Key Takeaways

• Tantra is more than sexuality - it’s about energy, presence, and deep personal growth through mindfulness, breathwork, and embodiment.
• Safety and consent are non-negotiable: Justin and Leola’s application and interview process ensures aligned participants and safe group dynamics.
• Professionalism matters: Transparent communication with venues and strong operational systems allow facilitators to focus on transformation instead of logistics.
• Masculine–feminine balance: Co-facilitation across genders can create more grounded and powerful retreat experiences.
• Retreats as a real business: Pricing, screening, and intentional marketing are essential to attract committed clients and avoid burnout.

Episode Highlights

[02:15] Justin’s transition from corporate life to Tantra and retreat facilitation.
[07:40] Redefining Tantra and clearing misconceptions about Neo-Tantra.
[14:10] How Justin screens participants and ensures emotional safety.
[19:25] The power of venue transparency and building trust with hosts like Retreat Ranch.
[25:50] Why masculine presence is vital in retreat leadership.
[32:00] Pricing, profitability, and shifting the scarcity mindset in the retreat industry.

 

Listen to This Episode If You:

• Want to better understand Tantra from a grounded, professional lens.
• Are interested in how men can contribute meaningfully in the retreat space.
• Need inspiration for creating safer, more inclusive, and more profitable retreats.
• Are a retreat leader looking to blend purpose and profit without compromising integrity.

 

Connect with Justin: https://tantralovecoach.com/ 

Instagram: @tantralovecoach

 

 

The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• Join our private Facebook Group
• Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide
• Get 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!

 

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Timestamps

Justin’s Background & Journey to Tantra (00:02:16) Justin shares his transition from corporate to coaching, focusing on intimacy, sexuality, and tantra.

First Retreat Experience & Organization (00:03:48) Discussion of Justin’s first retreat, its organization, and Shannon’s impressions as a venue owner.

Misconceptions About Tantra (00:04:43) Justin addresses common myths about tantra, clarifying its true focus and practices.

Ideal Retreat Attendees (00:06:42) Justin describes the types of people who attend his retreats and what draws them in.

Screening Process & Boundaries (00:08:23) Justin explains his thorough screening process and the importance of boundaries for safety.

Retreat Industry Forum Announcement (00:10:36) Shannon promotes the upcoming Retreat Industry Forum event in Denver.

Venue Selection & Importance of Safety (00:11:55) Justin discusses what he values in a retreat venue, emphasizing safety, privacy, and support.

Men in the Retreat Industry (00:16:43) Conversation about the underrepresentation of men as retreat leaders and the value of male facilitators.

Profitability & Pricing Mindset (00:19:22) Discussion on treating retreats as a business, pricing strategies, and differences in mindset between men and women.

Screening Through Pricing & Value (00:20:50) Justin explains how pricing acts as a screening tool and why higher investment leads to better outcomes.

Scholarships & Guest Challenges (00:22:41) Both discuss challenges with scholarship attendees and the importance of a strong screening process.

Market Rate & Industry Mindset (00:23:28) Shannon and Justin talk about raising market rates and shifting scarcity mindsets in the industry.

Value Perception & Pricing Story (00:24:23) Justin shares a story illustrating how higher prices increase perceived value and participant commitment.

How to Connect with Justin (00:26:30) Justin provides his contact information and describes his offerings for those interested in working with him.

Episode Wrap-Up & Outro (00:27:25) Shannon thanks Justin, closes the episode, and shares where to find more resources.