Why “Giving Back” Is Hurting Your Retreat Business with Lori McDowell
How To Run Profitable Retreats
Release Date: 05/21/2026
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Most retreat leaders say they want to “give back.” But what if the way you’re doing it… is actually hurting your business? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I’m joined by Lori McDowell, transformational strategist, retreat curator, and author of The Re-Invention Mindset, to break down a powerful (and often misunderstood) concept in the retreat space: You cannot give from a business that isn’t profitable. Together, we unpack: ▪️ Why discounting your retreat is NOT the same as giving back ▪️ The hidden cost of underpricing (for both you and your clients)...
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info_outlineMost retreat leaders say they want to “give back.”
But what if the way you’re doing it… is actually hurting your business?
In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I’m joined by Lori McDowell, transformational strategist, retreat curator, and author of The Re-Invention Mindset, to break down a powerful (and often misunderstood) concept in the retreat space:
You cannot give from a business that isn’t profitable.
Together, we unpack:
▪️ Why discounting your retreat is NOT the same as giving back
▪️ The hidden cost of underpricing (for both you and your clients)
▪️ Why guests will often pay MORE for experiences that create real impact
▪️ The mindset shift from “my business is a charity” → “my business funds impact”
Lori shares real examples, from corporate retreats building bicycles for children’s homes to immersive give-back experiences that deepen connection, purpose, and transformation.
We also explore the psychology behind giving, decision-making, and why profitable retreats create a bigger ripple effect in the world.
If you’ve ever struggled with pricing, felt guilty charging more, or wondered how to align purpose with profit, this episode will challenge the way you think about your business.
And honestly… it might change how you design your retreats forever.
🌐 Connect with Lori:
https://yourextraordinarylife.net
Instagram & Facebook: @lori.mcdowell.5
🎟️ Want to Go Deeper?
Lori is also one of our featured workshop leaders at the Sellout Retreat Summit in Mexico, where we’ll be taking these concepts even further.
If you’re ready to design retreats that are both profitable and impactful, this is where it happens:
⬛️ Learn more: https://reimagineu.thrivecart.com/retreats-done-right/
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