Ross Franklin, founder and CEO of Pure Green

Ethan Blauner's story begins in the tumultuous period of the pandemic when the doors of the (unfortunately now defunct) Switch Playground--like many big box and boutique gyms across the globe--shuttered and left trainers wandering in an uncertain fitness landscape. As routines crumbled, Ethan faced the challenge that rattled the entire industry . . . the abrupt transition from physical spaces to a virtual existence where the workout mat was to become the new gym floor.

It was during this time of redefinition that serendipity struck. A client proposed the idea of virtual fitness classes. Skeptical but intrepid, Ethan ventured into the relatively unknown domain of digital fitness instruction. With a yoga mat as the sole requisite, he pioneered "core day," a bodyweight-centric regimen designed for the digital crowd.

The inaugural week was a testament to the potential of this newfound format. Ethan managed to draw an impressive attendance, with 15 to 20 virtual participants, ready to exercise from the solitude of their homes. The success of that first class marked the beginning of a new era for Ethan, a reinvention borne out of necessity that showcased his adaptability and his unwavering commitment to fostering fitness, even in times of global uncertainty.

Blauner delves into the founding of his new concept, Sid's Gym, and the innovative indoor running simulators that set it apart. When it comes to new innovations in treadmill technology, he states, "If you're on a normal treadmill, you're staring at a mirror in front of you and nothing's moving, it's kind of a weird thing for your brain because you're moving your body, but your surroundings stay the same. On our treadmill, you feel like you're moving through space, even though you're not. Our brains are not equipped to actually realize that we're running on a treadmill. And basically 5 minutes into the run, you're fully immersed. You forget that you're on the treadmill."

Key themes discussed

• Veteran trainer adapts to teaching online classes.
• Virtual experiences blend with in-person training.
• Maximizing space, smaller classes facilitate community building.
• Program aims to provide consistency and results.
• Understanding and catering to unique fitness goals.
• Encourage gyms to tap into event planners.

A few key takeaways:

1. Blauner found success and community building by adapting to the pandemic, transitioning to online fitness classes, and creating a sense of togetherness during a challenging time.

2. The evolution of boutique fitness in New York City post-pandemic involves incorporating a virtual experience with a focus on personalized, intimate classes, and community building, while recognizing the importance of in-person training for the unique atmosphere it provides.

3. The concept of Sid's Gym incorporates indoor running simulators with immersive technology, providing a unique training experience that simulates outdoor terrain and aims to revolutionize traditional treadmill workouts.

4. Ethan emphasizes the importance of understanding individual goals and creating a tailored experience for each member, prioritizing personalized coaching, community building, and tracking progress to deliver a more engaging and effective fitness experience.

5. The episode highlights the potential for a new era in boutique fitness, emphasizing the use of unique technology and community-centered approaches to provide a more comprehensive and fulfilling fitness experience.

Click here to download transcript. 

Resources:

• Ethan Blauner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethan-blauner-a94a42132 
• Ethan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ethanblauner13
• Sid Raman: https://halotalks.com/episode-481-sid-raman-unveils-next-level-treadmill-technology 
• Sid's Gym:  https://www.sidsgym.com
• Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
• Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
• HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com 

Connect With Us: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ 
Website: https://www.halotalks.com 

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.

Sid Raman is a structural engineer with over three decades of experience in the construction and building sector. His expertise took an innovative turn roughly seven years ago, as he delved into the niche of construction automation and robotics. Sid discovered a new-found excitement in the application of motors and controllers, and the fascinating overlap between the principles governing both construction machinery and robotic systems.

Host Pete Moore and Sid sit down to discuss the ground breaking, next-generation technology of treadmills and the futuristic vision behind it. Sid shares how his passion for trail running led him to create a treadmill that replicates outdoor experiences. They delve into the unique features of the treadmill, the business model behind it, and the potential impact on fitness and entertainment. 

On new technology, Sid states, "All these treadmills have one problem, and that is they do not go up and down quickly and fluidly. So our secret sauce is that we took a belt and board, which is a standard deck, but we introduced an element of engineering so the deck itself is inclining and declining without lifting the runner or walker on it . . . so you get the feeling that you are going uphill or downhill, and all of that is synchronized with what you're seeing on the big screen in front of you."

Key themes discussed

• Engineer with 30 years experience who delves into robotics.
• Frustration with existing treadmills led to innovation.
• New location, prototype development, commercialization plan explained.
• Creating immersive experiences, open platform for content.
• Simplicity, affordability, and modular design for treadmills.
• Wholesale code, product augmentation, health, recovery, entertainment.

A few key takeaways:

1. Sid saw an opportunity to revolutionize treadmill technology. He sought to address the lack of engagement and feedback in traditional treadmills, particularly for trail runners who found it challenging to replicate the outdoor experience on existing equipment.

2. Raman designed a treadmill that goes beyond traditional treadmills, which he refers to as a "running simulator." This innovative treadmill features an inclining and declining deck that simulates the feeling of running uphill and downhill, providing a more immersive and engaging experience. The deck's movement is synchronized with visuals on a screen, enhancing the feeling of outdoor running.

3. Raman emphasizes the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the design. He utilized off-the-shelf components, making the treadmill more durable, easy to maintain, and cost-effective. Additionally, the modular design allows for easy upgrades, reducing the risk of obsolescence.

4. The treadmill is not just a fitness machine but a "theater of the mind" that aims to provide users with immersive and entertaining experiences. The machine offers engaging content, including virtual races and varied terrains, to make workouts more enjoyable and challenging. The goal is to make movement fun, engaging, and joyful while bringing communities together through fitness.

5. Raman has partnered with Ethan Blauner and Roger Harvey--both well-known fitness industry veterans--to integrate the advanced treadmill into their studio. By infusing gamification and entertainment elements into the workouts, they aim to attract a wider spectrum of individuals, reducing intimidation and making fitness more accessible and enjoyable.

Click here to download transcript. 

Resources:

• Sid Raman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sid-raman-b12b1631 
• Sid's Gym:  https://www.sidsgym.com
• Revolution Nice: https://www.revolutionice.com
• Xpriential: https://xpriential.com 
• Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
• Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
• HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com 

Connect With Us: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ 
Website: https://www.halotalks.com 

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.

Matthew Schober is the Co-Founder of Concierge Health (previously known as Gym Farm), a company that provides services to fitness facilities. Host Pete Moore and Matt discuss ancillary revenues, establishing new revenue streams for clubs, and the complex challenges and opportunities in the insurance and corporate markets. Matthew elaborates on how Concierge Health's platform--Connections--integrates AI coaching, nutrition, and employee well-being, offering an engaging experience for individuals and providing tools for partners. The conversation also delves into the practical aspects of managing employer programs and engaging senior individuals in fitness programs.

As a strategist navigating both the insurance and corporate terrains, Matt is attuned to the complexities within the Medicare market . . . and well aware of its lucrative potential through usage-based programs entwined with demanding operational protocols that often deter participation by clubs. He acknowledges the challenges faced in reporting and verification processes that force many to opt-out or selectively engage.

When it comes to new innovations for insurance client engagement, Schober states, "The part of Connections that we've really evolved it into from our experiences working with insurance companies was not only to create an engaging experience for the individual, but also to maximize partner exposure, and give partners tools in order to be able to utilize this effectively."

Key themes discussed

• Complex business challenges with insurance and benefits.
• Working with Optum, Tivity, SilverSneakers for programs.
• Programs generate revenue, attract members, low cost.
• Marketing opportunities for senior fitness clubs.
• Maximizing efficiency in gym location operations.
• Enhancing insurance experiences, managing partner relationships efficiently.

A few key takeaways:

1. Concierge Health focuses on providing concierge-level service and customizing benefits and journeys for individuals, while also supporting fitness facilities with high-level service and automations to drive new revenue streams.

2. There is a focus on engaging previously untapped markets such as insurance, Medicare, and corporate businesses to create opportunities for ancillary revenues for fitness clubs.

3. Their newest platform, Connections, offers an employer well-being and employee health and well-being engagement platform with AI coaching, nutrition, mental health, and behavioral health features.

4. The platform also integrates with various programs and partnerships, streamlining processes for clubs and offering tools for managing relationships and eligibility verification.

Click here to download transcript. 

Resources:

• Matthew Schober: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-schober-660bb08/ 
• Concierge Health: https://home.conciergehealth.co/ 
• Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
• Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
• HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com 

Connect With Us: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ 
Website: https://www.halotalks.com 

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.

Will Coker emerged as an innovative thinker in the realm of club operations, a field where he's spent 24 years honing his expertise. His journey into entrepreneurship began when the seeds of an idea took root along with his Co-Founders, who held influential positions on advisory councils and boards across various other HALO-sector companies.

Coker's role as an operations savant and an informal staffing consultant made him the go-to person for his business-savvy cofounders. These discussions, covering a wide range of issues, hinted at a market need that Coker realized needed to be addressed. 

Leveraging his extensive experience and the strategic acumen of his Co-Founders, Coker helped start Fibr, a venture that would capitalize on the gap in club operations staffing and advisory services, setting the stage for what would likely become a dynamic and responsive business solution. Will and his team remain at the forefront of the issues surrounding recruiting in the HALO space, and is ready to steer Fibr to meet the demands of an ever-evolving market.

Private Equity Impact on Fitness Industry: "What we found is as we started partnering with some operators on their staffing challenges, and one of the things that's really cool about our industry in 2023--and you know this better than anyone, Pete--is we've had all this private equity money come into our industry. 20 years ago, it was the same 4 or 5 companies. Now we've got all of this investment and their studios popping up everywhere, which is awesome."

Key themes discussed

• Health clubs face staffing issues; seeking solutions.
• Operators need to realize people are the product.
• Created direct connection, offer consulting for operators.
• Building app features for easier employer search.
• Health clubs transform into talent-filled event venues.
• Flexibility and benefits are crucial for applicants.

A few key takeaways:

1. Direct Connection and Career Placement: Will underscores the critical need for creating direct connections between fitness professionals and operators to ease the staffing challenges. His emphasis on career placement services for fit pros highlights a proactive approach to nurturing a robust workforce within the industry.

2. Innovative App Development: Fibr is developing an app designed to streamline the recruitment process. This digital solution aims to facilitate easier access for operators to find qualified staff and provide seamless consulting services, which exemplifies the fitness industry's shift toward technological integration to solve traditional problems.

3. Changes Post-COVID: The episode delves into the evolution of the fitness industry post-COVID, spotlighting the need for operators to adapt to the distinct preferences of Gen Z. This demographic looks for flexibility and opportunities to build their personal brand, thereby challenging the industry to innovate and cater to these new demands.

4. Industry Adaptation and Independent Operators: Will highlights the importance of the fitness industry's adaptation in meeting changing employee preferences, such as the desire for better benefits and flexibility. Independent operators, in particular, are encouraged to offer unique experiences and work venues that resonate with the modern workforce's needs.

5. Focus on People: Coker drives home the point that the success of brick-and-mortar fitness facilities heavily relies on the strength of their people. The discussion with Pete emphasizes the significance of considering labor as an investment and the impact of knowledgeable and passionate staff on customer satisfaction and retention.

Resources:

• Will Coker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-coker-3957578a/ 
• Fibr: https://www.info.fibr.fit/ 
• Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
• Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
• HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com 

Connect With Us: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ 
Website: https://www.halotalks.com 

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.

Jim Ludwig, an enthusiastic former tennis player, has been the linchpin for the pickleball community in Naples since 2010. His journey with the sport began at a small country club where he recognized the game's potential for growth, particularly among the senior demographic. Sensing the need for more space, Jim's vision led him to a nearby park, where he observed underutilized tennis courts. Taking the initiative, he proposed the idea to the county, which culminated in the transformation of a few tennis courts into dedicated pickleball courts.

Jim shares his journey with the sport, from its humble beginnings to growing Naples, Florida into the epicenter of pickleball with 64 courts and hosting the world's largest pickleball tournament. He discusses the challenges and successes of bringing the sport to different venues and his vision for the future. He and Pete dive into into the evolution of the sport, sponsorship, and the profound impact of pickleball on health and wellness.

On the rapid growth of the sport, Ludwig states, "Eventually I started thinking, well, where are you gonna grow the event? They're running in high schools, gymnasiums, and more. What we experienced with the US Open, we started out with 800 players in 2016. Then we got to 4,800 players who signed up to be a part of this year's event!"

Key themes discussed

• Advocating for new community pickleball facilities with municipalities.
• Budgeting for convention center space and costs.
• Looking at different convention centers for events.
• Research, investment, sponsorship and growth in sports marketing.
• Discussion about the future of pickleball industry.

A few key takeaways:

1. The growth of pickleball in the Naples area: Jim played a key role in developing the pickleball infrastructure in Naples, leading to the growth of the sport and was one of key figures to help establish the US Open Pickleball Championship. 

2. Community engagement and investment: Jim's engagement with the local community and government was instrumental in securing support and resources to develop pickleball courts.

3. Potential for non-endemic sponsorships: There's an emerging opportunity for non-endemic companies to sponsor pickleball events and tournaments, targeting the over 50 demographic.

4. Evolution of pickleball as a sport: The industry is witnessing a transition from manual operations to more professional event management, with the potential for significant growth, attracting potential investors and sponsorships.

5. Inclusivity and accessibility: Jim Ludwig emphasized the accessibility and inclusivity of pickleball, highlighting its appeal to a wide range of players, including those involved in Special Olympics and veterans organizations.

Click here to download transcript. 

Resources:

• Jim Ludwig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-ludwig-652973112/ 
• US Open Pickleball Championship: https://www.usopenpickleballchampionship.com/ 
• PB1965: http://www.pb1965.com 
• Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
• Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
• HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com 

Connect With Us: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ 
Website: https://www.halotalks.com 

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.

Rina Raphael is a highly regarded, well-established writer and journalist who has covered a wide range of topics in the HALO sector from fitness and nutrition to biohacking and even strology startups! She currently has a highly regarded newsletter on substack called Well to Do, and in 2016 she authored the Gospel of Wellness which deep-dives into the changes she witnessed in the industry, highlighting both hopeful and troubling developments. Currently, she writes for prestigious outlets such as Fast Company, the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, and the LA Times, with a focus on cultural and sociological aspects of wellness trends.

Host Pete Moore and Raphael discuss topics such as the evolving trends in wellness, the challenges of reporting on wellness products, the intersection of wellness and religious communities, the impact of social and economic factors on health and wellness, and more. This episode offers an insightful look into the industry and the evolving landscape of health and wellness trends. If you are at all interested in keeping updated on the going's on in the space, her book and newsletter are must-reads. 

Regarding her current coverage, she states, "I cover more than just the business perspective now. I cover more of the cultural and sociological aspects. More and more, I'm trying to answer the question of why is everyone obsessed with a certain trend, why do certain things take off, and why are so many people turning to wellness."

Key themes discussed

• Wellness industry evolution
• Consumer skepticism
• Bridging wellness and religion
• Socioeconomic barriers to wellness
• Women's health and wellness
• Challenges for journalists in wellness reporting
• The future of wellness

A few key takeaways:

1. Unpacking the space: Rina shares her journey into the industry and the insights she gained from covering everything from fitness to nutrition to biohacking and astrology startups.

2. Brand Credibility in Reporting: Rina discusses the challenges of reporting on wellness products and services that are not always backed by scientific evidence, emphasizing the need for brands to prove their efficacy to a increasingly skeptical consumer base.

3. Emerging Wellness Trends: The discussion spans from the growing interest in the outdoor market to the intersection of fitness and spirituality, highlighting the nuanced ways wellness is perceived and pursued within different cultural and socioeconomic contexts.

4. Wellness Accessibility: Rina talks about income and time barriers to wellness and emphasizes the importance of finding solutions that cater to the time-strapped and underserved populations.

5. Future Trends and Opportunities: Raphael identifies the women's health space (pelvic health, clinics, etc)  as an area poised for significant growth and impact in the wellness industry.

Click here to download transcript. 

Resources:

• Rina Raphael: https://www.rinaraphael.com/ 
• The Gospel of Wellness book: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250793003 
• Rina Raphael's Newsletter: https://welltodo.substack.com/ 
• Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
• Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
• HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com 

Connect With Us: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ 
Website: https://www.halotalks.com 

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.

In this episode, host Pete Moore sits down with long-time friend and former classmate Brian Paris to discuss a wide range of topics related to coaching, wellness, and personal development. Brian shares insights into his approach to coaching, emphasizing the importance of a holistic lifestyle, positive psychology, and the impact of habits and mindset. The conversation also delves a bit into the financial aspects of hiring a coach, the need for recovery and not glorifying burnout.

Brian is known for his charismatic personality and his continued evangelizing of the HALO lifestyle. Since he was a teen, he's been all about a movement-first lifestyle and eventually became a "movement nerd." Paris continues to make a name for himself with his unique approach and ability to connect with others. 

When discussing self-control and mindfulness, Paris states, "I've trained with therapists. I've trained with coaches. I've done specific work around breathwork, specific work with Native American traditions, and a whole bunch of things around silence and meditation . . . and it's absolutely nonstop. It's the journey."

Key themes discussed

• Holistic approach: Embracing mind-body connection for coaching success.
• Investment: Financial commitment and accountability for personal growth.
• Executive coaching: Addressing burnout and recovery for high-level professionals.
• Client connection: Delving deeper into clients' thinking for impactful coaching.
• Mindset and neuroscience: Leveraging neurobiology for elite coaching relationships.
• Business tools and partnerships: Utilizing tech and collaborations for coaching effectiveness.
• Writing and authorship: Sharing knowledge and experiences through book projects.

A few key takeaways:

1. The importance of holistic coaching: Brian emphasizes the significance of approaching coaching from a holistic perspective, focusing on lifestyle, habits, mindset, sleep hygiene, and exercise to promote overall well-being.

2. Value of self-investment: There is a discussion about the financial commitment and accountability required for coaching, highlighting the value of investing in personal development and growth.

3. Embracing a proactive mindset: Dr. Paris encourages treating oneself as a high-level executive and stresses the need for recovery and avoiding burnout, promoting a proactive and sustainable approach to personal and professional development.

4. Deepening client connections: The conversation delves into the need for elite coaches to understand neurobiology, peak performance, and flow talks to deeply connect with clients, offering insights for established trainers to optimize client relationships.

5. Gratitude and collaboration: The episode provides a glimpse into the close relationship between Pete Moore and Dr. Paris, expressing gratitude and a shared journey of growth and learning, emphasizing the power of collaboration and mentorship in personal and professional development.

Resources:

• Brian Paris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbrianparis/ 
• Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
• Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
• HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com 

Connect With Us: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ 
Website: https://www.halotalks.com 

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.

Christine Howe has dedicated her entire career to staffing and recruiting in the HALO (Health, Active Lifestyle, Outdoors) industry for over 12 years. She recently ventured out on her own and started Fit Pro Finders, a staffing service catering specifically to the HALO space. She and her team work with a wide range of companies, from small to mid-sized independents, to franchise-owned and corporate facilities, to help them find the right personnel to drive their businesses forward.

Pete and Christine discuss the in's and out's of human capital and delve into the challenges of finding and retaining top talent, the importance of a holistic approach to staffing, and the need to shift the industry's perspective to a people-first mindset. They also touch on the significance of understanding a client's immediate needs and the lack of HR departments in some scenarios.

Regarding hiring from outside the industry, Christine is a fan. She states, "I've been having a lot of conversations with hiring managers about hiring talent outside of the industry. Looking at organizations like Starbucks, Disney, other hospitality-people first driven organizations that have a phenomenal customer service onboarding system and pulling people that are generally passionate about serving people through this modality."

Key themes discussed

• Hiring outside industries: Expanding talent pool for unique perspectives.
• Cost-effective recruiting: Assessing value for high-quality talent acquisition.
• Candidate retention: Fostering growth and development within organizations.
• Professionalism in staffing: Importance of authenticity and conscientiousness.
• Revenue optimization for fitness: Shifting perspective to people-first industry.
• Staffing for small to mid-sized companies: Understanding client needs and business model.

A few key takeaways:

1. Holistic staffing: Christine emphasizes the need for a comprehensive staffing approach, covering not only recruitment but also aspects like the interview process, onboarding, compensation, and company culture.

2. People-first perspective in the industry: The discussion sheds light on the significance of prioritizing the well-being and growth opportunities for fitness professionals, showcasing the industry as people-oriented.

3. Understanding competitiveness beyond pay rates: Christine highlights the challenges of retaining employees in a competitive industry and the need to consider factors beyond pay rates, reflecting a holistic view of employee retention.

4. Tailoring staffing solutions to specific business needs: The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding a client's immediate staffing needs, timeline, and business model, underlining the need for a customized approach in staffing solutions.

5. Authenticity and preparation in the hiring process: The importance of authenticity in interviews, for both interviewers and interviewees, as well as the value of researching the company and preparing questions related to culture, growth plans, and training opportunities are crucial takeaways.

Click here to download transcript.  

Resources:

• Chrstine Howe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-howe-a83b564/ 
• Fit Pro Finders: http://www.fitprofinders.com
• Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
• Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
• HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com 

Connect With Us: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ 
Website: https://www.halotalks.com 

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.

Dr. Kenneth Cooper (often referred to as the "Father of Aerobics") has been one of the seminal pioneers in the field of preventive medicine for over five decades. Despite tremendous skepticism from the medical community at large initially, he founded the Cooper Clinic in Dallas in December, 1970 with the belief that taking care of healthy individuals was just as important as treating the sick. Over the years, he has worked to change the perception of preventive medicine and has become a leading advocate for fitness and wellness. His dedication to promoting healthy lifestyles has made arguably one of the biggest impacts in the field of medicine over the past few decades, and his work continues to not only teach physicians, but also to inspire others to prioritize their health and well-being.

Dr. Cooper shares his personal daily exercise routine, and information about his upcoming documentary and book releases. Pete and Dr. Cooper delve into the importance of physical fitness in reducing healthcare costs and improving quality of life, as well as discussing strategies to motivate people to prioritize exercise and embrace a healthy lifestyle. 

Financial Incentives for Exercise: "I think most one of the most beneficial things we could do to motivate people to exercise is financial motivation. Whether it's getting a reduction in their insurance or a reduction in their income tax because they're living longer. I tried to present that in Washington one time because I wanted to concentrate on childhood obesity and diabetes, adult obesity and diabetes, and the cost of health care. I was recommended to be Surgeon General on two different occasions when Bush was President. But in order to do that, I would have had to sell the aerobics center to the highest bidder, so I turned it down."

Key themes discussed

• Transition from military service to successful research career.
• Promoting preventive medicine for physicians and laypeople.
• More exercise is better, but not indefinitely.
• Adequate sleep, stress control, and vitamin supplementation.
• Pickleball promotes health, socializing, and community benefits.
• Increased fitness leads to decreased health care costs.
• Financial incentives can motivate people to exercise.
• Embrace exercise to live a fuller life.

A few key takeaways:

1. Exercise is a vital component for a long and healthy life: Dr. Kenneth Cooper's personal journey and emphasis on the importance of exercise serve as a reminder that incorporating physical activity into one's lifestyle can significantly impact overall health and well-being.

2. Importance of investing in quality vitamins: Dr. Cooper's discussion about vitamin certification and the need for purity and efficacy ensures listeners understand the significance of choosing high-quality vitamins for disease prevention and health maintenance.

3. The impact of physical activity on healthcare costs: With studies highlighting the potential cost reduction associated with increased physical activity, it's clear that investing in exercise can have significant financial benefits on a personal and global scale.

4. Incentivizing exercise for better health: Dr. Cooper and host Pete Moore discuss the potential for fitness incentives such as insurance reductions or tax benefits to motivate people to stay fit, reinforcing the idea that financial incentives can absolutely play a role in promoting physical activity.

5. Focus on preventive medicine and healthy living: Dr. Cooper's career and the concepts he highlights, such as the "Cooperized" lifestyle and the key factors for healthy living, underscore the importance of preventive medicine, annual medical examinations, and incorporating healthy habits into daily life for long-term wellness.

Resources:

• Dr. Kenneth Cooper: https://cooperaerobics.com/About/Our-Leaders/Kenneth-H-Cooper,-MD,-MPH-Full-Bio.aspx.
• The Cooper Institute®: https://www.cooperinstitute.org
• Cooper Documentary Series: https://www.cooperaerobics.com/About/Documentary.aspx
• Dr. Cooper's First HALO Talks: https://halotalks.com/episode-298-dr-kenneth-cooper-founder-the-cooper-institute/ 
  
  Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
  Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
  HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com 

Connect With Us: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ 
Website: https://www.halotalks.com 

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.

Prime Hall served in the Marines from 2005 to 2017, with his initial deployment being in the infantry for the first four years. He later transitioned to becoming a water survival instructor, where he drew on principles of military water survival for the basis of his programming. Hall relays the story of an individual who survived for 20 hours in the Gulf of Mexico after falling off a Carnival cruise ship, which exemplifies the incredible efficacy of military water survival. 

Prime also discusses his work with his company Deep End Fitness, a program that certifies instructors in this survival methodology and provides branded programming for health clubs, YMCA's, JCC's, and so on. Additionally, he dives (get it?) ;) into the Underwater Torpedo League (UTL), a unique sport he created while in the military to help his squad gain confidence which has garnered substantial attention and a growing community of players. 

Hall states, "The biggest draw we see are individuals that have a fitness enthusiast, or water enthusiast background with a business acumen . . . that's kind of where we see the highest performing programs across the country . . . and when it comes to the UTL, it's created a huge value proposition for the licensees because now some of them compete on one of 12 teams we've founded!"

Key themes discussed

1. Water Survival: Military principles, SAFE methodology.

2. Deep End Fitness: Licensing program, 30 location currently, aiming for 100 by the end of 2024. 

3. Training and Instruction: Virtual programming, personalized training, in-person mentors.

4. Underwater Torpedo League (UTL): "Full-contact" under water sport, co-ed teams, a force multiplier.

5. CrossFit Affiliation: Hybrid licensing, value proposition, building community.

6. Franchise Growth: Master licensees, international expansion, ongoing capital raise.

7. Life Lessons and Mottoes: "Make it happen", "When in doubt, focus out", breath control.

A few key takeaways:

1. Prime is known for his expertise in water survival training derived from his military experience. He explains how his training process, based on principles of military water survival, helps individuals gain confidence in the water, even if they don't know how to swim.

2. He discusses the Deep End Fitness program and its innovative approach to fitness. The program is being licensed to individuals and health clubs across the US as a performance program that complements other physical activities.

3. The UTL is an underwater sport that involves full-contact gameplay at the bottom of a pool using torpedoes. The league serves as an exciting force multiplier that adds value to licensees and creates a community around the Deep End Fitness program.

4. Finally, Prime shares some insightful military and performance philosophies, such as "When in doubt, focus out" to navigate stressful situations and the importance of breath for cognitive control. These philosophies offer practical guidance that can be applied not only in water-based activities but also in everyday life.

Click here to download transcript. 

Resources:

Prime Hall: https://www.linkedin.com/in/primehall 
Deep End Fitness: https://www.deependfitness.com 
Underwater Torpedo League: https://utlnation.com/ 
Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com 

Connect With Us: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ 
Website: https://www.halotalks.com 

Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.