Today I’m joined by Nate Pearson, co-founder and CEO of TrainerRoad. In this episode, Nate shares his experience building a bootstrapped, profitable company over ten-plus years. We explore the fast-growing and increasingly competitive endurance tech category. And we talk about TrainerRoad’s Adaptive Training platform that uses machine learning to help cyclists get faster. More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter a...
Dec 28, 2021•34 min
Today I’m joined by Krisna Bhargava, CEO of Arena — the complete mobile smart gym. In this episode, we discuss Arena’s innovative strength training solution and its focus on human performance — including athletes, strength coaches, and physical therapists. Krisna details the company’s plan to accelerate growth. And we cover Arena’s mission to replace the dumbbell. Note: Fitt Insider is an investor in Arena More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decision...
Dec 21, 2021•33 min
Today I’m joined by Melissa Bentivoglio, co-founder and CEO of Frame Fitness — makers of a connected Pilates reformer. In this episode, Melissa shares how her experience as an athlete, instructor, and designer led to founding Frame. We talk about the company’s $5M funding round that included 24 Hour Fitness founder Mark Mastrov. And we cover content, community, and manufacturing as the company prepares to ship products in 2022. More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed an...
Dec 14, 2021•33 min
Today I’m joined by Helaine Knapp, CEO of CITYROW. In this episode, we discuss the company’s origin as a single boutique fitness studio, the decision to launch a connected rower and digital app, and Helaine’s plan to scale an omnichannel experience. More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter and podcast, curate an industry jobs board, and invest in early-stage companies. *** Subscribe to our newsletter: https://insi...
Dec 07, 2021•34 min
Today I’m joined by Martin Adler, CEO of Brooklyn Boulders — operators of urban climbing, fitness, and community centers. In this episode, we discuss the growing business of rock climbing, leveraging technology to enhance the climbing experience, and falling in love with the joy of movement. More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter and podcast, curate an industry jobs board, and invest in early-stage companies. **...
Nov 30, 2021•37 min
Today I’m joined by Sarah Robb O’Hagan, CEO of Exos — a human performance company. In this episode, we discuss Sarah’s experience at companies like Nike, Gatorade, Equinox, and Flywheel Sports. We talk about Exos programs that span work, sport, and life. Plus, we cover the company’s efforts to make elite performance more accessible through in-person and digital offerings. More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter a...
Nov 23, 2021•32 min
Today I’m joined by Daniel Sobhani, CEO of Freeletics — an AI-powered fitness app. In today’s episode, we discuss the company’s evolution from PDF workout plans to a digital fitness platform with more than 50M users. We cover the launch of Staedium, the company’s new game-based connected strength training product. And Daniel shares his thoughts on innovation, team building, gamification, and more. More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We pro...
Nov 16, 2021•34 min
Today I’m joined by Akin Akman and Angela Manuel-Davis, co-founders of AARMY — a digital and in-person fitness concept. In this episode, the team explains how AARMY accelerated its digital transformation during the pandemic. We also talk about the importance of building community in a virtual environment. And we discuss the company’s hybrid offering that includes studios, pop-ups, digital content, and potentially hardware. More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and mak...
Nov 09, 2021•31 min
Today I’m joined by Jeff Veldhuizen, CEO of Capti — a game-based smart bike. In this episode, we discuss Capti’s immersive gaming experience. Jeff explains how Capti differs from other connected equipment makers. And he shares the company’s long-term goal of powering fitness in the metaverse. More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter and podcast, curate an industry jobs board, and invest in early-stage companies. S...
Nov 02, 2021•32 min
Today I’m joined by Marc Maurer, co-CEO of On — a Swiss-engineered performance footwear and apparel company. In this episode, we discuss the company’s recent IPO, including growth opportunities in retail and direct-to-consumer channels. Marc explains how On combines performance, design, and sustainability to stand out in a crowded market. And he shares the company’s mission to ignite the human spirit through movement. More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make bet...
Oct 26, 2021•30 min
Today I’m joined by Kimberly Ang, co-founder and CEO of KAYA — an app for rock climbers. In this episode, Kim shares the company’s vision for building the Strava of rock climbing, including a premium subscription, increasing access to climbing, democratizing mentorship, and helping grow participation in the sport. More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter and podcast, curate an industry jobs board, and invest in ea...
Oct 19, 2021•33 min
Today, I’m joined by Benjamin Nazarian, CEO of Therabody – a wellness technology company. In this episode, we discuss the rise of the recovery category. We explore Therabody’s evolution from a single product—the Theragun–into a platform for pain management, as well as the company’s transition into the consumer market. Plus, we look at emerging and adjacent verticals, including breathwork, contrast therapy, mental fitness, and more. More from Benjamin Benjamin Nazarian is the Chief Executive Offi...
Oct 12, 2021•31 min
Today, I’m joined by Jordan Fliegel. An experienced entrepreneur and investor, we talk about Jordan’s role at Techstars Sports, his investment fund, Founders First, and his time as founder of CoachUp and co-CEO of Draft.com. The conversation also covers emerging opportunities in the Sports Tech category, as well as Jordan’s framework for evaluating companies and founders. More from Jordan Jordan Fliegel (born 1986) is an American tech entrepreneur and investor, focused on the sports industry. Te...
Oct 05, 2021•45 min
Today, I’m joined by Phil Southerland, founder and CEO of Supersapiens — a company using continuous glucose monitoring to help athletes manage their energy levels. In this episode, we discuss advancements in glucose monitoring. Phil explains why the company is focused on endurance athletes and high performance. And he shares his vision for using sports as a platform to change the health of the world. More from Phil Phil Southerland was born in Tallahassee, Florida, and was diagnosed with type 1 ...
Sep 28, 2021•37 min
Today I’m joined by Ara Katz, co-founder & co-CEO of Seed Health — a microbial sciences company. In this episode, we discuss the microbiome and the many ways it impacts well-being. Ara explains Seed’s approach to building a platform around studying and commercializing probiotics. And we talk about the differences between wellness, healthcare, and consumer life science. More from Ara A serial entrepreneur, advisor and angel investor, Ara Katz has eclectic experience at the intersection of hea...
Sep 21, 2021•37 min
Today I’m joined by Tom Aulet, co-founder and CEO of Ergatta — a game-based connected rower. In this episode, Tom lays out the opportunity in creating fitness offerings that go beyond instructor-led, boutique-style classes. We talk about the company’s approach to designing game-based content. And we discuss the potential for Ergatta to enter new categories in addition to rowing. More from Tom Tom is a teacher, turned economic analyst, turned enterprise software revenue leader, turned tech entrep...
Sep 14, 2021•37 min
Today I’m joined by Joey Gonzalez, the CEO of Barry’s — a premium boutique fitness brand. In this episode, Joey shares his experience with the company, from customer and instructor to chief executive. We talk about Barry’s X, the company’s new digital platform, as well as Joey’s vision for an omnichannel offering that includes partnering with connected fitness brands. Plus, we discuss the importance of building a values- and mission-driven company culture. More from Joey Joey Gonzalez is the CEO...
Sep 07, 2021•34 min
Today I’m joined by Jonathan Wolf, the co-founder and CEO of ZOE — a personalized nutrition company. In this episode, we talk about the gut microbiome, at-home test kits, and how ZOE helps people understand the impact different foods have on their well-being. We also discuss the benefits and challenges of a direct-to-consumer model versus seeking FDA approval for companies in the health diagnostic or wearables space. More from Jonathan Jonathan is the cofounder of health technology company ZOE. ...
Aug 31, 2021•31 min
Today I’m joined by Echelon Fitness CEO Lou Lentine. In this episode, we discuss the company’s growing connected fitness platform — including smart bikes, treadmills, rowers, and interactive workout mirrors. Lou explains how Echelon was able to build partnerships with 12K retailers, including Walmart, Target, and Costco. Plus, he talks about the company’s plan to release gaming-inspired content and strength training equipment in an effort to become the hub for at-home fitness. More from Lou Lou ...
Aug 24, 2021•34 min
Today I’m joined by Juliet and Kelly Starrett, the husband and wife team behind The Ready State – the company that pioneered mobility training. In this episode, we talk about the evolution of their business, from a CrossFit gym to a Youtube channel and a variety of coaching products, including a digital subscription, educational courses, speaking, and consulting. We also discuss the fitness industrial complex as it relates to the booming fitness industry but widening health gap — along with how ...
Aug 17, 2021•47 min
Today I’m joined by Chip Hawkins, Founder and Chairman of Wahoo Fitness — a fitness technology for indoor cycling and endurance training. In this episode, we discuss Wahoo’s evolution from a single product used to track cycling stats to an indoor bike trainer and now a variety of devices and accessories for endurance athletes. Chip also talks about his approach to product development and the importance of staying innovative. Plus, we look at the opportunities and challenges in content, software,...
Aug 10, 2021•40 min
Today I’m joined by Bryan Myers, the President & CEO of [solidcore] — a Pilates-based boutique fitness brand with more than 70 locations across the US. In this episode, Bryan talks about transitioning into the CEO role earlier this year. Then, we discuss COVID’s impact on the business, raising new capital to support expansion, and [solidcore]’s digital partnership with Equinox+. Bryan also shares his approach to building culture and persisting through the pandemic. More from Bryan Bryan is t...
Aug 03, 2021•37 min
Today I’m joined by Mark Mullett and Ashley Mills, the co-founders and co-CEOs of obé — a premium digital fitness platform offering live and on-demand workouts. In this episode, Mark and Ashley explain how their background in talent management and experience at CAA led them to start obé. We discuss the role of content, community, and instructors on the platform, as well as the company’s plan to host in-person events. And we talk about obe’s new $15M funding round that included CAVU Venture Partn...
Jul 27, 2021•35 min
Today I’m joined by Eric Roza, the owner and CEO of CrossFit. In this episode, Eric shares his vision for the company’s future. We cover the role of technology, growing the CrossFit Games, and new initiatives across eCommerce, direct-to-consumer fitness content, and healthcare. We also discuss the obstacles he’s facing as he tries to turn around the embattled brand. Plus, Eric talks about how a cold email and handshake deal led to him taking over the company. More from Fitt Insider Fitt Insider ...
Jul 20, 2021•44 min
Today I’m joined by Chloe Steinberg. Chloe is a partner at Sapphire Sport, a venture capital platform investing in companies powering the next generation of consumers. In this episode, we talk about Chloe’s experience at Equinox, where she led Equinox Ventures. We discuss Gen Z’s approach to wellness, including a broader shift toward a healthier lifestyle. And Chloe shares her framework for separating fads from sustainable health and fitness businesses. More from Chloe Chloe Steinberg is a partn...
Jul 13, 2021•36 min
Today I’m joined by Aaron de Jong, CEO of movr — an app that makes healthy movement more accessible for everyone. In this episode, we talk about Aaron’s journey from fitness instructor and studio owner to startup founder. We discuss the company’s approach to improving mobility and strength through movement assessment and mini-workouts. And Aaron shares his plan to bring movr’s technology to other fitness platforms. Disclosure: We're investors in movr, and we're excited to support Aaron and team ...
Jul 06, 2021•31 min
Today I’m joined by Kelsey Ramsden, CEO of MINDCURE — a life sciences company using psychedelics to promote healing and improve mental health. In this episode, we discuss the psychedelic revolution, including shifts in science and culture paving the way. Kelsey explains the challenges and opportunities facing operators and investors in this space. And she talks about MINDCURE’s efforts to build digital therapeutics that support psychedelic-assisted therapies. More from Kelsey With over fifteen y...
Jun 29, 2021•37 min
Today I’m joined by Omer Atesmen, Founder and CEO of The Skills — an online education platform offering courses taught by the world’s best athletes. In this episode, Omer explains how the company was able to partner with athletes like Michael Phelps, Maria Sharapova, and Megan Rapinoe. We discuss the challenges and opportunities in EdTech, including content production and competitors like MasterClass. And Omer shares his plan for building the definitive education platform in the sports and welln...
Jun 22, 2021•31 min
Today I’m joined by Sam Cole, co-founder & CEO of FitXR — a virtual fitness club bringing fun and immersive workouts to the home. In this episode, Sam breaks down the innovation happening in virtual reality. We talk about the potential for VR fitness to make working out fun and engaging for an entirely new audience beyond exercise enthusiasts. And we discuss the future of personalization, community, and group workouts in VR. More from Sam Sam is the CEO and a co-founder of FitXR. Sam began h...
Jun 15, 2021•35 min
Today I’m joined by Josh McCarter, CEO of Mindbody — a business management software for fitness and wellness services. In this episode, we discuss COVID’s impact on the fitness industry. Josh explains how the company navigated the pandemic, including layoffs, his transition to CEO, and the launch of virtual experiences. And we talk about the future of fitness, including digital content, the role of fitness professionals, and the return to exercising in person. More from Josh Josh McCarter is CEO...
Jun 08, 2021•37 min
