Behind Gym Doors | A Fitness Business Podcast
We cover the most common challenges in the fitness business industry to help you overcome them and GSD! This podcast is also available in high-def video and audio-only formats. -- Watch the show: https://www.youtube.com/@GSD-gyms Read the show: https://www.gsdgyms.com/podcasts/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GSDgyms/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gsdgyms
info_outline
434: Why Gym Employees Can't Sell - And How to Fix It (The CPT Sales Machine)
04/02/2026
434: Why Gym Employees Can't Sell - And How to Fix It (The CPT Sales Machine)
Your gym staff isn't bad at sales. You just never gave them what they actually need to close. In this episode, Mike Arce breaks down the CPT Sales Machine — the 3-part framework behind the gyms GSD works with that consistently hit 80%+ close rates, even as they raise prices. Here's the hard truth most gym owners miss: you're great at sales because you have conviction no employee will ever naturally match. Your gym is your baby. Theirs is a job. But conviction can be built — and when you pair it with the right process and the right training rhythms, your staff starts outselling you. One of our member gyms went from 15 new members a month to 35–40 — not by hiring better people. By fixing these three things. In this episode: Why you're the only one closing at your gym (and why it's not your staff's fault) The CPT Sales Machine: Conviction, Process, and Training — in order of importance How to build real belief in your team using daily wins, mission talks, and monthly member stories The pre, during, and post sales process your staff needs to stop winging it The 3 training rhythms that separate gyms with 80%+ close rates from everyone else BONUS: The 4 Levels of Certainty every prospect needs before they'll buy If you're tired of being the only one who can sell at your gym — this one's for you. 🎯 Ready to grow your gym faster? See how GSD Gyms helps fitness studios reach $100K/month → ⏱ Episode Timestamps: 0:00 — Why your staff can't sell 1:00 — Mike Arce + GSD Gyms intro 2:00 — The real problem (it's not potential or activity) 3:30 — Introducing the CPT Sales Machine 4:15 — C: Conviction — why owners have it and how to build it in your team 8:15 — P: Process — pre, during, and post frameworks 15:30 — T: Training — 3 types that drive 80%+ close rates 27:00 — Digging a hole vs. solving a Rubik's Cube 34:00 — BONUS: The 4 Levels of Certainty 38:00 — Final CTA
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/40715045
info_outline
#433: Gym Owners Are Practicing the Wrong Sales Skill
03/24/2026
#433: Gym Owners Are Practicing the Wrong Sales Skill
You just lost another sale. The lead came in, they seemed interested, and then you got hit with one of these ... "let me think about it," "it's a little out of my budget," "I need to talk to my spouse." So you did what most people do. You went to YouTube, practiced your rebuttals, maybe bought a book on closing. And the next lead sat down...and you got the exact same objections. Here's what nobody is telling you: the problem isn't your objection handling. Those objections aren't even the real problem. They're just the smoke. And you've been so focused on the smoke that you never actually found the fire. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike breaks down the 5 stages of the gym sales process and shows you exactly where sales are really being lost...and it's not at the close. We walk through how to turn your thank you page into a sales asset, why your best leads are doing homework on you before you ever call them, what your Google reviews, website, and social presence are doing to your close rate, and why objection handling is the last 5% and the 95% before it is where the real game is won. If you want to spend less time selling and almost zero time overcoming objections...this episode is your playbook.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/40544780
info_outline
#432: OHM Fitness - Why Your Studio is Losing Members and How to Fix It
03/12/2026
#432: OHM Fitness - Why Your Studio is Losing Members and How to Fix It
Most gyms think their retention problem is a marketing problem. It's not. If members are walking out the door faster than you can replace them, the issue isn't your ads, your pricing, or your location, it's whether every single person on your team makes every single member feel like the whole operation exists for them. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike goes live inside OHM Fitness Happy Valley in Peoria, AZ with the owners, head coach, manager, and front desk team for a real, unscripted coaching session on why retention suffers, and exactly what it takes to fix it. We walk through the math behind dropping from 9% attrition to 4%, why celebrity coaching is quietly destroying retention at most studios, how your intake call, confirmation, and first visit experience either build trust or break it, and what it actually means to make every touchpoint about the member…not the staff. If you want to stop shoveling snow while it's snowing and start compounding your membership base, this episode is your playbook.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/40416920
info_outline
#430: Top 5 Global Fitness Studio Gets 200-400+ Leads Per Month
02/25/2026
#430: Top 5 Global Fitness Studio Gets 200-400+ Leads Per Month
Most gym owners think growth comes from better marketing. The reality? Most are ignoring the systems and data that actually drive predictable results. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike sits down with Lindsay Greenlee a former Texas Tech University professor turned owner of one of the top-performing Pure Barre studios in the franchise to break down how data-driven decisions, structured marketing processes, and strong execution helped her generate consistent lead flow and industry-leading conversion rates. Instead of constantly chasing new tactics or relying on agencies to “figure it out,” Lindsay explains how understanding your numbers, tracking lead quality, and staying actively involved in marketing strategy creates real momentum inside a gym. If you feel like you’re working harder but growth still feels unpredictable, this episode will change how you think about marketing, retention, and scaling your business. Want help applying this to your gym? See how we help gym owners grow profitably without chasing more leads. DM "GSD" to @GSDGyms on Instagram.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/40235615
info_outline
#431: Top Performing Gym Owner Reveals How She Turned Slow Months Into Record Breaking Revenue
02/20/2026
#431: Top Performing Gym Owner Reveals How She Turned Slow Months Into Record Breaking Revenue
In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike sits down with top-performing F45 owner Grace to break down the systems, mindset, and operational decisions that helped her turn seasonal dips into record-breaking revenue. We dive into how elite gym owners plan revenue dips before they happen, why comparing month-to-month data can lead to bad decisions, how integrating Hyrox strengthened community and lead flow, and what it really takes to build a high-performing fitness business that compounds over time. Instead of reacting to slow periods or constantly changing strategies, Grace focused on understanding her numbers, identifying seasonal trends, and building predictable systems that create long-term growth. Want help applying this to your gym? See how we help gym owners grow profitably without chasing more leads. DM "GSD" to @GSDGyms on Instagram.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/40177935
info_outline
#429 Small Gym Breaks Record: $321K in ONE MONTH!
02/12/2026
#429 Small Gym Breaks Record: $321K in ONE MONTH!
Most gym owners think they have a marketing problem. What they actually have… is a retention problem. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike sits down with Kim and Dave to break down the systems, mindset, and relationship-driven approach that helped their gym reach record-breaking growth, including a $321K month and multiple record months throughout the year. Instead of constantly chasing new leads or switching marketing strategies, they focused on building a business that compounds through strong retention, deep member relationships, and consistent operational systems. We dive into what most gym owners misunderstand about growth, why retention is often the hidden driver behind revenue expansion, how marketing and retention must work together, and what it actually takes to create predictable momentum inside your business. If you feel like you’re always trying to “fix marketing” but growth still feels unstable, this episode will completely change how you think about scaling. Want help applying this to your gym? See how we help gym owners grow profitably without chasing more leads. DM "GSD" to @GSDGyms on Instagram.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/40088780
info_outline
#428: The Control Problem Killing Gym Growth
02/10/2026
#428: The Control Problem Killing Gym Growth
Most gym owners don’t struggle because of marketing. They struggle because they can’t let go of control. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike sits down with Caitlin Bovee to break down the leadership shift that changed everything inside her business. Instead of trying to control every decision, meeting, and outcome, she focused on developing leaders, building systems, and stepping out of daily operations, allowing the business to grow in a completely different way. We dive into the real challenges gym owners face when transitioning from operator to leader, including why control often becomes the hidden bottleneck preventing growth, how leadership development impacts retention and team performance, and what it actually takes to scale without doing everything yourself. If you feel stuck managing every detail or struggling to move from operator to CEO, this episode will help you rethink how growth actually happens. Want help applying this to your gym? See how we help gym owners grow profitably without chasing more leads. DM "GSD" to @GSDGyms on Instagram.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/40066045
info_outline
#427: Path to $100k per month
02/05/2026
#427: Path to $100k per month
Reaching $100,000 per month in your gym isn’t about luck. It’s about understanding the math, solving the right problems, and building a model that actually supports scale. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike breaks down the real path to hitting $100K/month, including the revenue structure, pricing strategy, and operational shifts required to grow beyond the plateau most gym owners hit. We walk through the exact numbers behind membership revenue, ancillary income, pricing sweet spots, and the strategic decisions that separate gyms that scale from gyms that stay stuck chasing more members without real profit. Want help applying this to your gym? See how we help gym owners grow profitably without chasing more leads. DM "GSD" to @GSDGyms on Instagram.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/40007465
info_outline
#426: The Leadership System Behind a $1.7M Pilates Studio
02/03/2026
#426: The Leadership System Behind a $1.7M Pilates Studio
The biggest reason most gyms don’t grow isn’t a lack of leads. It’s a lack of leadership and systems. Too many gym owners believe more ads, more sales scripts, or more hustle will fix their plateau, when the real issue is their inability to build a team and environment that can actually scale. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike sits down with Ahme Bovee, Owner of Bovee Pilates, who built a $1.7M business largely through leadership, culture, referrals, and systems, not massive ad spend. We break down why most gyms hit a ceiling, what high-performing gym owners do differently, and how leadership becomes the ultimate growth lever once the basics are in place. Want help applying this to your gym? See how we help gym owners grow profitably without chasing more leads. DM "GSD" to @GSDGyms on Instagram.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/39985820
info_outline
#425: How Should Gyms Work With AD Agencies
01/29/2026
#425: How Should Gyms Work With AD Agencies
The biggest mistake gym owners make with ads isn’t choosing the wrong agency. It’s not knowing how to work with an ad agency in the first place. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike breaks down how gyms should actually partner with ad agencies so results are predictable, profitable, and scalable, not lucky, short-lived, or dependent on guessing. We walk through what separates gyms that win with ads from gyms that churn through agencies, burn cash, and stay stuck. If you want ads to support real growth (not just activity), this episode is your playbook. Want help applying this to your gym? See how we help gym owners grow profitably without chasing more leads. DM "GSD" to @GSDGyms on Instagram.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/39928010
info_outline
#424: What It Really Takes to Scale a Gym Business
01/27/2026
#424: What It Really Takes to Scale a Gym Business
The fastest way to scale your gym isn’t working harder. It’s building systems that work without you. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike sits down with the founder of The Hot Room, a fitness brand that grew from 1 studio to 7 locations, stayed profitable, built a cult-like culture, and is now expanding into franchising. We break down the real systems, discipline, and leadership decisions that allowed her to scale without burning out, without breaking culture, and without losing control of the business. Most gym owners get stuck in chaos: More tasks → More stress → More fires → Same results. This episode shows you how to build a gym that actually scales, with people, systems, referrals, culture, and discipline doing the heavy lifting. If you want a gym that runs with or without you, this episode is your playbook. Want help applying this to your gym? See how we help gym owners grow profitably without chasing more leads. DM "GSD" to @GSDGyms on Instagram.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/39903460
info_outline
#423: 3 Ways Gyms Grow Revenue (Part 3: Retention)
01/22/2026
#423: 3 Ways Gyms Grow Revenue (Part 3: Retention)
The fastest way to grow your gym isn’t more leads. It’s keeping the members you already have. In this episode of GSDGYMS, we breaks down Part 3 of the 3 Ways Gyms Grow Revenue series: Retention, the most overlooked, most profitable, and most misunderstood growth lever in the gym business. Most gym owners are stuck in a cycle of: More ads → More leads → More churn → Same revenue. If your gym is growing but your bank account isn’t, this episode explains exactly why.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/39819255
info_outline
#422: You Don’t Need More Gym Members to Make More Money (Here's Why)
01/20/2026
#422: You Don’t Need More Gym Members to Make More Money (Here's Why)
Your gym might be busy…and still not making as much money as it should. Most gym owners think increasing revenue means getting more members. That’s usually the slowest, hardest, and most expensive way to grow. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike Arce breaks down the second of the three real ways to grow your gym and the one most owners avoid: 👉 Increasing revenue per member. Most owners believe: • Raising prices will cause cancellations • Members won’t buy add-ons • Selling higher tiers will hurt the culture But the truth is the opposite. The members who pay more: • Stay longer • Show up more • Get better results • And are far less likely to cancel In this episode, you’ll learn: • The only three ways to increase revenue per member • Why this actually improves retention instead of hurting it • And why avoiding it is one of the main reasons gyms stay stuck This is the same framework used by gyms doing $30k–$100k+/month with strong margins. If you want to grow without relying on more leads, more ads, or more chaos, this episode is required listening. Want help applying this to your gym? See how we help gym owners grow profitably without chasing more leads. DM "GSD" to @GSDGyms on Instagram.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/39798740
info_outline
#421: 3 Ways to Get More Gym Members (That Aren't Ads)
01/15/2026
#421: 3 Ways to Get More Gym Members (That Aren't Ads)
Your gym doesn’t have a lead problem. It has a leverage problem. Most gym owners think growth only comes from running more ads. In reality, that’s just one of three levers you can pull and it’s usually the weakest one. In this episode, I break down the three real ways to get more gym members (and more revenue) without just lighting money on fire with marketing. You’ll learn: The 3×3 growth grid we use with gyms scaling profitably Why most gyms are stuck only pulling one lever How to grow faster without increasing ad spend How referrals, retention, and conversion multiply everything Why operational clarity beats “more leads” every time This is the exact framework used by gyms that consistently grow month over month while everyone else stays stuck or burns out. If you want more members, more revenue, and more profit without guessing, this episode will change how you think about growth.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/39733470
info_outline
#420: The Only 2 Gym Metrics That Predict Profit (Not Leads or Sales)
01/13/2026
#420: The Only 2 Gym Metrics That Predict Profit (Not Leads or Sales)
Your marketing might look great… …and still be losing you money. Most gym owners track leads, cost per lead, close rate, and show rate... then wonder why their bank account tells a different story. In this episode, I break down the only two numbers that actually determine whether your marketing is profitable, and why gyms that understand them make better decisions around ads, discounts, retention, and growth. This framework is used by gyms consistently producing $30k–$50k+ per month in profit. It’s simple. It’s measurable. And it removes guesswork entirely. If you’re running ads, working with an agency, or making marketing decisions without knowing these two numbers cold, this episode is required viewing. Want the AI tool that calculates them for your gym automatically? DM METRICS to @GSDGyms on Instagram.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/39717105
info_outline
#419: Gym Owners: Your Real Marketing Job in 2026 (It's Not What You Think)
01/08/2026
#419: Gym Owners: Your Real Marketing Job in 2026 (It's Not What You Think)
Most gym owners think marketing is about getting more leads. Last week, a gym owner told me he spent $8,000 on Meta ads and got 147 leads. His agency sent charts, graphs, the whole victory lap. So I asked one question: How much revenue did it produce? He didn’t know. And that’s the real problem in 2026. It’s not the owner. It’s not the agency. It’s that almost nobody knows what the job actually is. In this episode, I break down the gym owner’s real job as the head of marketing, the only three ways revenue can grow, and a simple framework to identify which lever your gym should focus on right now. If you’re running ads, posting content, and staying “busy” with marketing, but your revenue isn’t moving the way it should, watch this all the way through. Want the AI tool that calculates which revenue lever matters most for your gym? DM 333 to @GSDGyms on Instagram. Listen to the audio version on the Behind Gym Doors Podcast.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/39656095
info_outline
#418: $1.6M Gym's Marketing Playbook
01/06/2026
#418: $1.6M Gym's Marketing Playbook
Most gym owners think marketing means ads, posts, and promotions. That mindset is exactly why most gyms stay stuck. In this episode, we go inside the actual 2026 marketing playbook of MTK Muay Thai Kickboxing, a gym business doing roughly $140,000 per month, to show what real marketing looks like when it’s built to scale. This isn’t theory. This isn’t surface-level tactics. And this definitely isn’t just ads. You’ll see how marketing touches product, pricing, retention, events, culture, and team structure—and why gyms that understand this grow differently. If you own or manage a gym and want to build something that lasts longer than a single coach or location, this is one you’ll want to watch closely.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/39623530
info_outline
#417: LIVE Gym Owner Marketing Training
01/01/2026
#417: LIVE Gym Owner Marketing Training
Most gym owners think higher competition means higher risk. In this episode, we walk through real numbers from Crowned Boxing to show why that belief often leads to missed growth, stalled momentum, and unnecessary caution. This conversation breaks down ad spend, retention, lifetime value, and decision-making in a way every gym owner can understand... without hype or theory. If you’ve ever paused ads because “it felt like the wrong month,” this episode will challenge how you think about growth.
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/39578415
info_outline
#416: Lessons From the Best
09/22/2025
#416: Lessons From the Best
In this final episode of the season, Mike Arce reflects on a fun and successful season of interviewing exceptional gym owners. He highlights the impressive statistic that 40% of the gyms he works with now generate over $1 million in annual revenue, a significant achievement given that less than 0.5% of gyms typically reach that milestone. The episode dives into the key factors that differentiate the most successful gym owners, focusing on three core areas: Customer Experience, Sales and Revenue & Team Building. This episode also features a special sponsored message from Inception Telehealth and Wellness, a company that partners with gyms to provide members with access to concierge-level functional medicine, hormone optimization, and advanced lab testing at no cost to the business. Gyms partnering with them can earn a 10-15% lifetime commission on referrals. Don't miss the exciting announcement that this podcast, has been rebranded to "The GSD Show" and will now focus on business in general, featuring a mix of solo episodes and interviews with high-achieving individuals from various industries. Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: Get Mike's Book... The Standard Is You: The Gym Employee's Guide to Winning in Work, Life, and Leadership:
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/38304765
info_outline
#415: High Ticket Sales For Gym Owners With Scott Carpenter
09/02/2025
#415: High Ticket Sales For Gym Owners With Scott Carpenter
Scott Carpenter turned six failing gyms into a multi-million dollar fitness business and he did it without competing on price or workouts. His secret? Selling transformation, not just training, and building a model that keeps clients committed for years. In this episode, he pulls back the curtain on the high-ticket sales systems, mentorship approach, and retention strategies that gym owners can put into play right now. You’ll see exactly how to position $2K–$10K memberships, deliver results in the “165 hours” outside your gym, and use price to filter for the most committed clients. Scott also shares the wealth-building strategy that grows your money while you grow your gym, plus the leadership safeguards every owner needs to protect their business. If you’re ready to raise your prices, grow your profit, and build a gym that runs on purpose, this conversation is your blueprint. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (01:45) From Financial Collapse to 6 Gyms (05:02) Mentorship vs. Coaching (09:11) Selling High-Ticket Fitness Programs (13:26) Why Real Results Happen Outside the Gym (17:39) Retention Through Renewals & Alumni (22:47) Using Price to Filter Clients (27:04) Infinite Banking for Gym Owners (33:18) Why Every Gym Needs Safeguards (38:42) Building a Committed Gym Community Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: Get Mike's Book... The Standard Is You: The Gym Employee's Guide to Winning in Work, Life, and Leadership: More From Scott Carpenter Private Coaching: Website: Facebook: Instagram: More From Loud Rumor Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Facebook: Twitter:
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/38060305
info_outline
#414: Communication Secrets to Improve Your Sales & Marketing with Michael Bernoff
08/26/2025
#414: Communication Secrets to Improve Your Sales & Marketing with Michael Bernoff
If you’re still giving tours, dropping prices, and hoping people sign up, you’re leaving money on the table. Michael Bernoff, one of the best communicators in the world, shows you how to flip the script so prospects sell themselves on joining your gym. Using his Human Interaction Technology (HIT), you’ll learn how to lower resistance from the very first hello, control the direction of the conversation, and get people excited to take action without discounting or chasing. In this episode, Michael breaks down exactly how to match your prospect’s energy, use language that keeps you in control, and create “pattern interrupts” that make them pay attention. You’ll leave knowing how to turn “I’ll think about it” into sign-ups, handle price questions like a pro, and keep members engaged long after they join. This is the playbook for gym owners who want more conversions, higher retention, and a sales process that works every time. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (02:27) From Shy to Sales Pro (04:33) 4 Keys to Great Communication (06:54) Matching Your Prospect’s Energy (09:29) Staying in Control of Every Conversation (13:57) NLP vs. HIT (18:15) The “Why, What, How, What If” Method (23:24) Selling Without Selling (33:12) Words That Kill Sales (46:55) Reframing Through Language (52:38) Why Empowerment Sells Better Than Pressure Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: Get Mike's Book... The Standard Is You: The Gym Employee's Guide to Winning in Work, Life, and Leadership: More From Michael Bernoff Website: Instagram: Facebook: Twitter: More From Loud Rumor Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Facebook: Twitter:
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/37965860
info_outline
#413: Building A $6M Gym With Culture & Purpose with Doug & Thea Wood
08/19/2025
#413: Building A $6M Gym With Culture & Purpose with Doug & Thea Wood
They didn’t just build a gym, they built a movement. Doug and Thea Wood are the powerhouse couple behind The Hive, Scottsdale’s most talked-about gym and a hub for high-performing entrepreneurs. But that’s just the surface. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Doug and Thea share how they turned personal transformation into global impact, building a $6M gym, launching an international online school, and funding orphanages around the world… all while being unapologetically bold about their faith, brand, and message. We dive deep into building niche communities, creating content that actually converts, and why most gym owners play too small. If you’re afraid of standing out, raising prices, or showing up authentically, this episode is your wake-up call. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (01:14) Building a school for entrepreneur families (07:06) From weight loss to a global brand (10:13) The $6M vision behind The Hive (13:47) Why their niche gym blew up on social (16:16) Deal flow and networking inside workouts (24:01) “Everything you want is on the other side of fear” (27:16) Being raw and bold on social media (33:13) Creating a gym culture people pay a premium for Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: Get Mike's Book... The Standard Is You: The Gym Employee's Guide to Winning in Work, Life, and Leadership: Connect With Doug & Thea Wood Website: The Hive Instagram: Doug Wood Instagram: Thea Wood Instagram: More From Loud Rumor Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Facebook: Twitter:
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/37879175
info_outline
#412: How YouTube & Podcasting Are Driving Leads in 2025 with Brady Edwards
08/12/2025
#412: How YouTube & Podcasting Are Driving Leads in 2025 with Brady Edwards
If your content isn’t bold, it’s invisible. Brady Edwards went from selling pest control to the Video Director for YouTube’s biggest creator, MrBeast. Now he’s helping business owners rethink how they create content that scales trust, drives attention, and builds brand authority. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Brady breaks down the exact mindset, strategies, storytelling structure he used to grow massive online audiences and how gym owners can apply the same methods to dominate their local market. This isn’t about likes. It’s about leveraging content as a sales tool that works 24/7. You’ll learn why short-form posts aren’t enough, how to build “one-sided best friendships” with future members, and how podcasting and YouTube unlock long-term visibility in a world driven by AI search and behavior tracking. If you run a gym or studio and want more of the right members, this episode will change how you think about marketing forever. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (02:03) Entering VidSummit & breaking into YouTube (05:49) Wild stories from the influencer house (09:09) Directing MrBeast video & becoming part of one (13:13) Thinking big & scaling high-impact content (18:36) Why most brands stop thinking too soon (21:04) Eye-tracking, metadata & how the algorithm really works (27:38) Why YouTube is crucial for gym owners (35:45) How podcasting builds long-term trust with future clients (40:35) Building loyalty with one-sided friendships (47:22) Grow your personal brand, grow your business Connect with Brady Edwards Instagram: Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: Get Mike's Book... The Standard Is You: The Gym Employee's Guide to Winning in Work, Life, and Leadership: More From Loud Rumor Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Facebook: Twitter:
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/37771090
info_outline
#411: Mastering Fear to Break Through Plateaus With Akshay Nanavati
08/05/2025
#411: Mastering Fear to Break Through Plateaus With Akshay Nanavati
He dragged a 420lb sled 500 miles alone in Antarctic... In this mind-blowing episode, Akshay Nanavati, author of Fearvana (with a foreword by the Dalai Lama), shares the hard-earned lessons he learned from solo expeditions across one of the most unforgiving places on Earth. His journey from rock bottom to redefining fear itself will change the way you look at discomfort, anxiety, and even imposter syndrome.Whether you're a gym owner resisting expansion, an entrepreneur paralyzed by “what if,” or someone struggling with self-doubt, Akshay reveals a practical mental training framework to help you lean into fear and grow through it. You’ll learn how to rewire your brain’s survival responses, use fear as fuel for courage and progress and build “mental muscle” through intentional discomfort. If you're ready to stop avoiding fear and start mastering it, this is the episode that flips the switch. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (02:13) The Origins of Fearvana (06:03) Rider vs. Elephant: Training Your Brain for Leadership (10:56) Mastering Yourself Through Exposure to Fear (16:53) Acceptance of Is-ness and Taking Control of Reality (20:49) Solo Trip Through Antarctica (28:55) Imposter Syndrome: Why It’s a Sign of Progress (32:04) Cold Pitching The Dalai Lama (38:05) What Fearvana Actually Means & How To Use It Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: Get Mike's Book... The Standard Is You: The Gym Employee's Guide to Winning in Work, Life, and Leadership: Connect with Akshay Nanavanti Get His Book: Instagram: YouTube: Website: More From Loud Rumor Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Facebook: Twitter:
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/37676450
info_outline
#410: Scaling From 1 Studio To A 7-Figure Exit with Sheetal Guttigoli
07/29/2025
#410: Scaling From 1 Studio To A 7-Figure Exit with Sheetal Guttigoli
Most gym owners start with a fitness passion, instead Sheetal started with a tech background and a structured business plan, and it worked. He built three Club Pilates studios that together do over $100K/month with 50% profit margins and scaled without him onsite. In this episode, you’ll hear how he built the system, sold the portfolio, and walked away with a multi-seven-figure exit. We break down the real numbers behind his sale, how “add-backs” boosted his valuation, why clean P&Ls attract better buyers, and how NPS helped him grow without ads. Whether you're building for freedom, scale, or a future exit, Sheetal’s approach proves you don’t need to be a fitness expert to run a wildly successful studio, you just need to think like a business owner and implement the right systems. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (07:05) Scaling to A $100K/Month Portfolio (11:10) Why Great Product Is the Best Marketing (15:55) Using NPS and Online Reviews to Drive Growth (23:12) Health Scare & When He Started Thinking About Selling (27:24) Preparing for Exit: Financials, Add-Backs, Clean P&Ls (36:01) Valuation Multiples: Portfolio Size & Profit Matter (42:50) The Value Of Using A Broker vs. DIY Sale (48:17) Why Future Gyms Must Adapt Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: Get Mike's Book... The Standard Is You: The Gym Employee's Guide to Winning in Work, Life, and Leadership: More From Loud Rumor Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Facebook: Twitter:
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/37591685
info_outline
#409: 81% of Gyms Fail in Year 1… Here’s How to Beat the Odds
07/25/2025
#409: 81% of Gyms Fail in Year 1… Here’s How to Beat the Odds
Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: In this powerful episode of Behind Gym Doors, Loud Rumor CEO Mike Arce joins Michael Benso on the Sweat Success podcast to share what truly separates thriving gyms from those that struggle to survive. Mike goes deep on why marketing, sales, and retention strategies alone aren’t enough, and how building a high-performing team with clear standards can transform your fitness business. You’ll discover: Why 81% of gyms fail in their first year (and how to avoid it) How to get the right people in the right seats in your business How to tie compensation to outcomes How to raise your team’s standards so they self-correct, execute consistently, and win Why NLP and effective communication can unlock buy-in from your staff and members If you’ve ever struggled with marketing campaigns that flop, team members who aren’t fully bought in, or retention issues that drain your profits, this episode is a must-watch. Subscribe to Behind Gym Doors for more real conversations with top fitness industry leaders who’ve built million-dollar gyms and businesses. Check out Michael Benso’s Sweat Success Podcast: 👉 Download Mike’s new book, The Standard, here: 👉 Join the next GSDCON fitness business conference:
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/37552090
info_outline
#408: This Gym Earned 700+ 5-Star Reviews with Tai Kyon
07/22/2025
#408: This Gym Earned 700+ 5-Star Reviews with Tai Kyon
Tai Kyon, owner of one of New York's most successful F45 studios, reveals how he turned his startup gym into a $100K/month powerhouse, without ads or gimmicks. Formerly a 275-pound tech executive, Tai's personal transformation fuels a studio culture built on empathy, excellence, and elite service. Today, his team leads the most positively reviewed F45 franchise globally, powered by a $250/month kindness budget and a mindset rooted in “unreasonable hospitality.” In this episode, Mike Arce covers how Tai mapped every member touchpoint, from the first walk-through to cancellation, to eliminate friction and create delight. From snow removal and childcare to handwritten holiday cards and birthday celebrations, this is a masterclass in how small moments drive massive results. If you're ready to build a gym experience tailored to the customer that sells itself, this episode is for you. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:18) Tai’s 100 LB Weight Loss Wake-Up Call (08:15) Stoicisms major Impact on Tai’s Life (12:04) Random Acts of Kindness: The $250 KPI Explained (21:09) Mapping the Member Journey To Remove Friction (27:44) Specifics of Tai’s Unique Onboarding Process (32:23) Why This F45 Is The Highest Rated In Network (44:36) The Importance Of Creating Intangible Moments (51:46) Time Is the Most Valuable Currency To Share Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: Get Mike's Book... The Standard Is You: The Gym Employee's Guide to Winning in Work, Life, and Leadership: More From Loud Rumor Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Facebook: Twitter: https://twitter.com/LoudRumor
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/37502195
info_outline
#407: The Truth About Employee Performance No One Talks About
07/17/2025
#407: The Truth About Employee Performance No One Talks About
Mike Arce sits down with Adam Kifer, CEO of Relentless Media and author of “The Relentless Marketer,” to unpack why most gym owners fail at paid ads and how to fix it by leading better, thinking bigger, and leveling up your team. This episode is a deep dive into the real reasons your leads don’t convert, your ads stop working, and your team underperforms. From coaching culture to marketing psychology to building internal belief systems that scale, this is the mindset reset most fitness entrepreneurs need, but rarely get. Chapters () Introduction () Why Average Thinking Is Costing You Growth () How to Level Up Your Team’s Thinking () Paid Ads vs. Performance Leadership () Building a Coaching Culture in Your Studio () Marketing That Makes Members Feel Seen () What Most Owners Get Wrong About Sales () The Power of Internal Belief Systems () How to Make Your Team Obsessed with Winning () Training for Skill vs. Training for Identity () Final Advice for Leaders Who Want More Enjoyed this episode? Like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated with the latest strategies from top fitness entrepreneurs. 🔗 Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: 🔔 Hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of The Behind Gym Doors Podcast! Connect with Adam Kifer Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: More From Loud Rumor Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Facebook: Twitter:
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/37446785
info_outline
#406: How 60+ Automations Power 800+ Members with Scott and Megan Hanson
07/15/2025
#406: How 60+ Automations Power 800+ Members with Scott and Megan Hanson
Mike Arce sits down with Megan and Scott Hanson, the founders of High Ride Cycle, to reveal how they’ve built a cult-like studio brand through next-level marketing automation, three iconic promotions a year, and an unforgettable in-studio culture. They’ve grown to 800+ members across three locations while keeping their ops lean, their campaigns personal, and their customer journey fully mapped out from lead nurture to milestone celebrations to cancellation saves. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (01:55) What Makes High Ride Culture So Addictive (04:56) Automating the Customer Journey: Where to Start (08:46) The Tools They Use: BrandBot & Mariana Tek (13:05) Celebrating Members and Turning It Into Marketing (19:17) The Cancellation Save Sequence (25:00) How One Marketer Runs It All (28:26) Inside Their Six-Figure Black Friday Campaign (34:05) Targeted Promos That Actually Convert (40:26) Scaling Automation Without Losing Your Mind (46:04) Final Advice: Start Simple, Build Over Time Enjoyed this episode? Like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated with the latest strategies from top fitness entrepreneurs. 🔔 Hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of The GSD Show! 🔗 Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: Connect with Scott & Megan Website: YouTube: Megan's Instagram: Scott's Instagram: More From Loud Rumor Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Facebook: Twitter:
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/37410605
info_outline
#405: She Scaled Her Gym to $141K/month and Still Has Time To Travel with Grace Giles
07/08/2025
#405: She Scaled Her Gym to $141K/month and Still Has Time To Travel with Grace Giles
Smart gyms don’t scale through hard working individuals, they scale through hard working systems. Grace Giles, the powerhouse behind one of the world’s highest-performing F45 studios, reveals how she turned burnout into balance, scaling to $141K/month while traveling and stepping away from daily operations. Grace shares how she leverages virtual assistants, tools like Loom and Canva, and detailed SOPs to free up her time while delivering elite-level client experiences. Her playbook is a masterclass for studio owners serious about sustainable growth. In this episode of Behind Gym Doors, Mike Arce and guest Grace Giles break down what it takes to grow a fitness business that runs with precision, without burning you out. From scalable systems and long-term marketing to team accountability and member retention, this conversation delivers the tools you need to shift from working in your gym to leading above it. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (04:03) Planning for Slow Seasons & Building a Strong Team (07:06) Systems Over People: The Foundation for Growth (13:00) Long-Term Business Planning & Leveraging Technology (19:44) Pricing, Value, and Mindset Shifts (23:14) Team Culture: High Standards with Heart (31:11) Engaging Community Through Events (35:27) Hiring Philosophy & Leading with Grit (42:19) Personal Growth & Vision for the Future 🔗 Ready to GROW your GYM? Schedule a free call to learn how we can help: More From Loud Rumor Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: Facebook: Twitter:
/episode/index/show/thegsdshowaudio/id/37335265