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How To Run Profitable Retreats

Advertise on podcast: How To Run Profitable Retreats

Rating
★★★★★
5
from
13 reviews
This podcast has
114 episodes
Language
English
Publisher
Leni Cavazos
Explicit
No
Date created
2023/07/12
Latest episode
2026/10/01
Average duration
21 min.
Release period
10 days

Description

How To Run Profitable Retreats is a heart-centered podcast hosted by Leni Cavazos, designed to empower you to create retreats that are not only profitable but deeply meaningful. In each episode, Leni shares insights and strategies to help you craft retreat experiences that are transformational for your clients and rewarding for yourself. With a focus on authenticity, community, and intention, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to create impactful retreats that leave a lasting impact. Each episode features interviews with successful retreat leaders, as well as solo episodes.

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Check latest episodes from How To Run Profitable Retreats podcast


The Only Joymaking Retreat by The Party Scientist | Jacques Martiquet
2026/10/01
What if your retreat didn't need another deep exercise, but more joy? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I sit down with Jacques Martiquet, The Party Scientist, creator of Joymaker Camp, to explore how joy, play, movement, and human connection can transform the way we design and facilitate retreats. We talk about why people don't come together in person just to consume information. They come to experience something. Jacques shares how interactive experiences can help participants connect more deeply, learn more effectively, and stay engaged. We also explore the balance between depth and joy, why safety is the foundation of transformation, and why being clear about who your retreat is NOT for can create a stronger experience for everyone who attends. ▪️ Using joy as a facilitation tool ▪️ Creating connection through play and movement ▪️ Designing interactive experiences instead of lectures ▪️ Balancing deep transformation with lightness ▪️ Creating safety and belonging in your retreat 🎧 Listen to The Only Joymaking Retreat by The Party Scientist with Jacques Martiquet. Connect with Jacques: https://joymaking.org/ https://www.instagram.com/partyscientistjoy/ https://joymaker.camp If you enjoyed this episode, share it and leave a rating for How to Run Profitable Retreats.     Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
Locational Astrology for Retreat Leaders: Timing your Optimum WHERE and WHEN | VerDarLuz CelestiOwl
2026/09/24
What if the location of your retreat could influence not only how the experience feels, but also your visibility, opportunities, relationships, and the transformation you're there to create? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I'm joined by VerDarLuz CelestiOwl, an astrologer and Human Design coach with 20 years of experience and more than 12,000 students and consultations. We explore astrocartography and locational astrology as tools retreat leaders can use when deciding WHERE and WHEN to host their retreats. VerDarLuz explains how different planetary influences can support different retreat intentions, why simply choosing a "good" planetary line isn't enough, and how timing, your individual birth chart, and Human Design can all play a role. And we make it practical. VerDarLuz uses my own chart as a live example, looking at places where I've lived and traveled, including Dubai, the UK, Mexico, and the Riviera Maya, and what those locations could mean for business, visibility, speaking, retreats, and personal growth.  In this episode, we discuss: ▪️ How location can support or challenge the intention of a retreat ▪️ Why the theme of your retreat matters when choosing a destination ▪️ How timing can change the energy of the same location ▪️ Why your complete birth chart matters when interpreting planetary lines ▪️ How retreat leaders can use these tools to narrow down potential destinations If you've ever asked yourself, "Where should I host my next retreat?" this conversation will give you an entirely different way to think about the answer. 🎧 Listen to Locational Astrology for Retreat Leaders: Timing Your Optimum WHERE and WHEN with VerDarLuz CelestiOwl. Connect with VerDarLuz: Destination by Design Consultancy: https://destinationbydesignconsultancy.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/verdarluz_divinetimingcoaching/?hl=en If you enjoyed this episode, share it with another retreat leader and leave How to Run Profitable Retreats a rating.     Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
Stop Choosing an Audience. Choose a Buyer.
2026/09/17
Before you can understand your ideal client, you have to stop trying to help everyone. In the last episode, we talked about choosing ONE clear transformation for your retreat. Now it's time for the next CEO decision: Who wants that transformation badly enough to pay for it, and has the financial power to buy it? Because an ideal client without purchasing power does not create a profitable retreat business. In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I'm walking you through an Ideal Buyer Exercise to help you stop defining your audience with vague demographics and start identifying the person who is actually ready, willing, and able to invest. We'll look at: ▪️ The financial signals that show someone is willing to invest ▪️ The specific moment that triggers them to start looking for a solution ▪️ The words they actually use to describe their problem ▪️ The buying patterns that prove they invest in experiences like yours ▪️ Why choosing the right buyer makes your messaging, pricing, location, and sales decisions easier The goal is not to find more people who could benefit from your retreat. It's to identify the person who wants the transformation, has a reason to make it happen now, and has already demonstrated that they are willing to invest. Your CEO decision for this episode: "I am not choosing an audience. I am choosing a buyer." 🎧 Listen now and complete the exercise as you go. If you like this episode, share it with another retreat leader and give How to Run Profitable Retreats a rating. ◼️ Ready to build and sell a more profitable retreat business? Join us at the Sell Out Retreats Summit, where retreat leaders and experts come together to learn how to sell more consistently, grow their businesses, and build the right connections. https://womensretreatsworldwide.com/pre-event-page?am_id=lenicavazos3368   Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
Why Clear Retreat Messaging Creates Safety
2026/09/10
What if clearer messaging could make your retreat feel safer before your guests ever arrive? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, Leni Cavazos explains why trying to make your retreat messaging appeal to everyone can actually create more uncertainty for potential buyers. When someone considers investing in a retreat, they're not only asking what's included. They're wondering: Will I belong here? Will I feel comfortable? Will the other people in the room understand me? Is this really designed for someone like me? Clear messaging helps answer those questions. 🎧 In this episode, you'll learn: ▪️ Why specificity creates trust and a stronger sense of belonging ▪️ How unclear messaging can affect sales and group dynamics ▪️ Why the right buyers need to recognize themselves in your offer ▪️ How to use self-selection language without judgment or exclusion ▪️ Three simple exercises to strengthen your retreat messaging Leni also shares an important CEO mindset shift: your job isn't to convince everyone to come. It's to create enough clarity that the right people recognize themselves and everyone else feels free to choose something different. Because clarity before the retreat helps create the conditions for transformation during it. ◼️ Ready to grow a retreat business that consistently attracts the right people? Join us at the Sell Out Retreats Summit, September 25–27 in Tepoztlán, Mexico: https://womensretreatsworldwide.com/pre-event-page?am_id=lenicavazos3368 🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, share it with another retreat leader and leave How to Run Profitable Retreats a rating.   Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
How to use quantum leaping to 10X your business | Malvina Messler
2026/09/03
What if growing your business didn't require working harder—but thinking and operating differently? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I sit down with Malvina Messler to talk about how to use quantum leaping to 10X your business. We talk about moving beyond the hustle, stepping into your next-level identity, making decisions as your future self, and choosing aligned action instead of simply doing more. As Malvina says: It's not about grinding harder. It's about aligning smarter. 🎧 Listen to the full episode: How to Use Quantum Leaping to 10X Your Business ▪️ Connect with Malvina: @malvinamessler ▪️ Get her FREE Neuroscience of Change Mini Course: https://malvinamessler.co/mini-course-opt-in-974764 ▪️ Join us at the Sell Out Retreats Summit in Mexico: https://womensretreatsworldwide.com/pre-event-page?am_id=lenicavazos3368 If you enjoyed this episode, share it and leave us a rating. 🎧   Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
Nature as your co-leader with Anne Gordon
2026/08/06
What if one of the most powerful facilitators at your retreat wasn't another coach, speaker, or workbook, but nature itself? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I sit down with Anne Gordon, founder of Whale Wisdom Retreats, who has been leading transformational whale and dolphin retreats since 2007. Anne shares how creating space for nature, stillness, and meaningful experiences can lead to deeper transformation than simply adding more content to your agenda. Together, we explore why the most memorable retreats aren't built around packed schedules, they're designed around intentional experiences that allow participants to reflect, integrate, and truly change. In this episode, we discuss: ▪️ Why transformation happens in the quiet moments, not during back-to-back sessions ▪️ How nature can become a powerful co-leader in your retreat experience ▪️ Why your retreat theme should guide every decision, from the destination to the activities you include ▪️ The biggest mistakes new retreat leaders make when planning their retreats ▪️ Why giving participants time to integrate their breakthroughs is just as important as the teaching itself ▪️ Why successful retreat leaders begin promoting their retreats months before the event Anne also shares one of the simplest yet most powerful mindset shifts for retreat leaders: Sell people what they want, and give them what they truly need. Whether you're planning your very first retreat or looking to create a more meaningful experience for your guests, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about how transformation really happens. 💭 Connect with Anne Gordon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anne.gordon.121/ Instagram: @WhaleWisdomRetreats 🖤 Free Gift Download Anne's Ultimate Retreat Leader Planner: https://6htwnkid.pages.infusionsoft.net 🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with another retreat leader and leave a rating or review. It helps more retreat professionals discover the show and build retreats that are both transformational and profitable.   Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
Stress Less, Earn More: The Value of a Retreat Planner with Marta Pizzarani
2026/07/30
What does it really take to host a seamless, profitable international retreat? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I sit down with Marta Pizzirani, founder of Grapefruit Luxury Retreats, to discuss why having a local retreat planner can save you time, reduce stress, and elevate your guests' experience—especially when hosting retreats abroad. Drawing from her experience planning luxury retreats across Italy, Marta shares the behind-the-scenes realities that most retreat leaders never consider until something goes wrong. From avoiding tourist traps and language barriers to finding trusted local vendors and choosing the right season and location, this conversation is packed with practical advice for anyone dreaming of hosting an international retreat. Together, we also discuss why your role as a retreat leader should be focused on creating transformation—not managing logistics—and how delegating the planning allows you to deliver a higher-quality experience while protecting your own energy. In this episode, we cover: ▫️ Why hiring a local retreat planner can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress ▫️ The hidden risks of planning an international retreat on your own ▫️ How local knowledge creates more authentic guest experiences ▫️ Why language and cultural differences matter more than you think ▫️ How to choose the right destination, season, and timing for your retreat ▫️ The difference between running a retreat and producing one If you've ever considered hosting a retreat in another country—or you're ready to stop doing everything yourself—this episode will help you understand the value of having the right local partner by your side. 💭 Connect with Marta Pizzirani Website: http://www.grapefruitluxuryretreats.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grapefruitretreats/ 🪽 Enjoyed this episode? Please share it with another retreat leader, subscribe to How to Run Profitable Retreats, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps us reach more retreat hosts who are building profitable, transformational retreat businesses.     Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
Retreats Are Like Plane Rides: Design Your Transformational Journey
2026/07/23
What if the secret to creating a truly transformational retreat has nothing to do with your itinerary—and everything to do with how people feel from beginning to end? In this episode, Leni Cavazos shares one of her favorite ways to design unforgettable retreat experiences: thinking like a pilot instead of a scheduler. Using the journey of a plane ride as a powerful analogy, you'll discover why your guests don't remember every workshop, meal, or activity—they remember the moments that mattered most. You'll learn how to intentionally guide your guests from the moment they book, through anticipation, arrival, connection, breakthrough, integration, and finally back into their everyday lives with a transformation that lasts.   🎧 In this episode, you'll discover: ▪️ Why your guests remember the peak and the ending more than anything else. ▪️ How to reduce pre-retreat anxiety before your guests even arrive. ▪️ How to create emotional "mini peaks" that build trust and connection. ▪️ Why your biggest transformational moment should happen around 60–70% into the retreat. ▪️ The importance of integration—and why skipping it can undo the transformation.   Whether you're planning your very first retreat or you've hosted dozens already, this episode will completely change the way you think about retreat design. 🪽 Stop creating schedules. Start designing transformational journeys.   ❕ If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with another retreat leader and leave a rating or review—it helps more people discover the show.   ⬛️ Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass: https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge     Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
The Legal Mistakes That Could Cost Your Retreat Business with Cory Sterling
2026/07/16
Legal isn't the most exciting part of running a retreat, but it can be one of the most important. In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I sit down with Cory Sterling, founder of Conscious Counsel, to talk about the legal foundations every retreat leader needs to have in place before welcoming participants. Whether you're planning your very first retreat or you've been hosting for years, this conversation will help you avoid costly mistakes, protect your business, and create a better experience for everyone involved. Together we discuss: The three legal documents every retreat leader should have before selling a retreat Why generic templates and AI-generated agreements can leave your business exposed The importance of activity-specific liability waivers The legal clauses that can protect you when unexpected events force changes or cancellations How the right legal agreements give you more confidence, control, and peace of mind Running profitable retreats isn't only about filling the room. It's about building a business that is sustainable, protected, and prepared for the unexpected. If you host retreats or are planning your first one, this episode is full of practical insights that can save you time, money, and stress. Connect with Cory: https://www.consciouscounsel.ca/home If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with another retreat leader, leave a rating, and subscribe so you never miss an episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats. 🎧🤍     Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
The Layers of a Retreat with Liesel Albrecht
2026/07/09
What makes a retreat truly transformational? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I sit down with Liesel Albrecht, founder of The Retreat Specialist and creator of the Nine-Layered Retreat Design Framework. With more than 34 years of experience leading retreats, Liesel shares what it takes to create meaningful experiences while building a retreat business that is both impactful and sustainable. We discuss why so many retreat leaders struggle to treat their retreats like a real business, the importance of designing with intention, and how your own story and expertise become the foundation for unforgettable retreats. In this episode, you'll learn: ▪️ Why retreats should be built like a business, not just an event ▪️ The key elements of transformational retreat design ▪️ How to create a retreat business that supports your lifestyle ▪️ Why community is essential to filling your retreats ▪️ An introduction to Liesel's Nine-Layered Retreat Design Framework Connect with today's guest: 🖤 The Retreat Specialist https://theretreatspecialists.com/ If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a rating, and share it with another retreat leader who is ready to build a more profitable retreat business. 🎧🖤     Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
How Structure Makes Retreats Profitable with Brent McCann
2026/07/02
What happens when men are finally given a space where they don't have to perform, fix everything, or carry the weight of the world on their shoulders? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I sit down with Brent McCann, founder of True North Men's Retreats, to explore why men's retreats are growing so quickly and the incredible transformations that happen when men feel safe enough to slow down, connect, and be heard. We also discuss how retreats help participants shift their identity, move from constant survival mode into clarity, strengthen their relationships, and build meaningful connections with other men who understand what they're going through. If you've ever wondered what makes a men's retreat successful, or you're considering creating retreats for men yourself, this conversation offers valuable insights into designing experiences that truly change lives. In this episode, we discuss: ▪️ Why more men are seeking retreats than ever before ▪️ The transformation that happens when men feel seen, heard, and understood ▪️ Why brotherhood and community are essential for long-term transformation ▪️ The power of preparing attendees before the retreat begins ▪️ Lessons from building a profitable retreat business through experimentation and continuous improvement Whether you're a retreat leader looking to better serve male audiences or someone curious about the growing impact of men's retreats, this episode will leave you with a new perspective on what's possible when people are given the right environment to grow. Connect with Brent McCann Website: https://truenorthmensretreat.com/ Instagram: @realbrentmccann 🎧 Subscribe to How to Run Profitable Retreats for weekly conversations on retreat strategy, pricing, marketing, operations, and building a retreat business that transforms lives while generating sustainable profit.     Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
Launch Your First Retreat (Without Losing Money or Your Mind)
2026/06/25
What if the biggest mistake new retreat leaders make has nothing to do with the venue, marketing, or even filling the room? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I'm sharing the five foundations every first-time retreat host needs to build a retreat business that is both transformational and profitable. Too many incredible coaches, healers, and facilitators create beautiful experiences that change lives... only to discover they barely made any money. The problem isn't passion. It's building a retreat without building the business behind it. In this episode, you'll discover: How to position your retreat so it becomes a "must attend" experience instead of a "maybe someday" A simple pricing formula that helps you stop guessing and start building real profit How to sell your retreat without feeling pushy, awkward, or salesy The four business foundations that matter far more than having the perfect venue If you've been thinking, "It's my turn to host my own retreat," this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to build one that supports both your clients and your business. 💭 FREE LIVE MASTERCLASS Ready to launch your first sold-out retreat? Join my free live masterclass where I'll walk you through the exact framework for creating, pricing, and selling your first profitable retreat. Save your seat here: https://theretreatplanner.com/launch-retreat-masterclass-page  🎧 Thanks for listening to How to Run Profitable Retreats. I'll see you in the next episode.   Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/call  Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Masterclass → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
Authorship in the Age of AI: How to Write a Book That Positions You as the Authority in 2026. with Tina Kapp-Kailea
2026/06/04
What does it really take to write a book that positions you as the authority, not just another story on a shelf? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, Leni Cavazos sits down with Tina Kapp-Kailea, international best-selling author, publisher, embodiment coach, and TEDx speaker, to unpack the truth about authorship in today's AI-driven world. This conversation goes far beyond "write your book in 90 days." Instead, it explores what most people don't talk about: the emotional weight of writing your story, the responsibility you hold as a leader, and the difference between sharing for connection vs. oversharing without transformation. If you're a coach, retreat leader, or expert looking to grow your visibility, build trust, and attract aligned clients, this episode will shift how you think about writing a book. ▪️ Why publishing a book is one of the fastest ways to build authority in 2026 ▪️ The difference between a memoir and a strategic authority-building book ▪️ How to tell your story without turning your audience into your therapist ▪️ Why "pain, pain, pain" storytelling repels instead of converts ▪️ The hidden emotional work behind writing—and why most people avoid it ▪️ How to use AI with integrity without losing your voice ▪️ What actually makes a book sell your retreats, services, and offers Tina also shares her journey through burnout, healing, and rediscovering purpose, and how that experience shaped her unique approach to helping women write powerful, truthful, and strategically positioned books. Because in a world where content is everywhere, your voice, your story, and your perspective are your greatest assets. And when done right, a book doesn't just tell your story… it becomes your most powerful business tool. 🖤   Connect with today's guest, Tina Kapp-Kailea: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinakkailea Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tinakkailea Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_femmepreneur Pinterest: https://nz.pinterest.com/the_femmepreneur   If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to share it, tag us, and leave a rating 🎧💬 Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/go Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Intensive → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Attend the Live Workshop → https://theretreatplanner.com/live Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
Why Every Coach, Speaker, and Leader Should Host a Retreat with Amanda Hietter
2026/05/28
What if hosting a retreat wasn't just about the experience, but about expanding your impact, deepening client relationships, and building a more profitable business model? In this episode of How to Run Profitable Retreats, I sit down with Amanda Hietter, CEO of Across the Horizon Travel and creator of Heat Up Your Retreats. Amanda supports coaches, pastors, and business leaders in designing transformational travel experiences, and in this conversation, we break down what most people get wrong when planning their first retreat. We talk about why retreats are such a powerful tool for growth, how to approach the planning process strategically (instead of emotionally), and what you actually need to validate before you invest time and money into your event. Amanda also shares her journey from paralegal to travel expert, and how she now acts as the "right-hand woman" for retreat leaders, handling logistics, contracts, and details so you can focus on what truly matters: filling your retreat and leading a powerful experience. Inside this episode, we cover: ▪️ Why your retreat should start with your why, not the destination ▪️ The biggest mistake retreat leaders make (and how it delays sales) ▪️ 3 essential questions to ask before hiring a travel agent ▪️ How to create momentum, demand, and a "snowball effect" for future retreats If you've been thinking about hosting a retreat, or you're already planning one, this episode will help you make smarter decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and focus on what actually drives results. 💭 Connect with Amanda Hietter: http://www.acrossthehorizontravel.com Instagram: @amandahietter 🎧 Grab her Top 7 Retreat Travel Tips: https://acrossthehorizontravel.com/travel-tips 🖤 If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who's ready to host their first (or next) retreat and don't forget to leave a rating and review. 🎧 Listen now and start building retreats that don't just look good—but actually sell.   Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/go Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Intensive → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Attend the Live Workshop → https://theretreatplanner.com/live Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner
Why "Giving Back" Is Hurting Your Retreat Business with Lori McDowell
2026/05/21
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) ▪️ 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/ 💬 Loved This Episode? If this conversation shifted your perspective, share it with someone who needs to hear it 🖤 And don't forget to leave a rating + review, it helps more retreat leaders build businesses that actually work.   Plan a Profitable Retreat Start here to get the tools, support, and strategy you need: Book a free consult → https://theretreatplanner.com/go Download the Profit E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/profitebook Download the Loyalty Marketing E-book → https://theretreatplanner.com/loyaltyebook Join the Sold Out & Profitable Intensive → https://theretreatplanner.com/challenge Attend the Live Workshop → https://theretreatplanner.com/live Follow on Instagram → https://instagram.com/theretreatplanner

Podcast reviews

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5 out of 5
13 reviews
★★★★★
Caminowalker17 2026/02/06
TacticalRetreatUnplugged
Leni does such an amazing job on this podcast and with her training programs. Solid, real world information that you can use today. She is making a ...
★★★★★
QueenofConnection 2025/11/18
A must listen for retreat runners
This podcast is full of valuable insight into running retreats, from the creative to the business side and I recommend it to anyone interested in or a...
★★★★★
Mickan586 2025/06/20
Loads of Information
Lenin’s episodes are full of valuable information for retreat, particular on the focus on changing perspectives and embracing these as opportunities t...
★★★★★
IndyFamily 2025/06/16
Amazing Podcast interview.
Loved being on Leni’s podcast. It was such an easy conversation and opened up so much that I wanted to share with the world. Leni has such an engaging...
★★★★★
rebecasn217 2025/06/14
Intentional Dating Meets Intentional Living
I had such a great time chatting with Leni on her podcast! Her energy is warm, grounded, and so easy to connect with. Even though her show focuses on ...
★★★★★
HLVP 2025/06/09
Excellent resource
If you’re looking for support and ideas related to retreats then you’ve found the right podcast.
★★★★★
Event Firecracker 2025/03/27
A Gem💎
Leni, her podcast and teachings are so important to the retreat industry. Learn important information before, during and after planning your retreats...
★★★★★
Lizlikesthebirds 2024/03/22
So great!
If you’re planning an event … press play now! I’m in the middle of our first event launch and I just listened to the rookie mistakes episode. I’m so ...
★★★★★
Maya Lila 2023/08/10
I’ve learned so much
Leni is a wealth of information and good energy!!! I’m organizing my first retreats and trying to figure it all out and keep the faith that it’s possi...
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