Since 2015, the Club Solutions Leadership Retreat has been bringing together a diverse group of commercial club owners and operators for three days of industry relevant roundtable discussions, panels, networking and unique team building experiences.
Club Solutions is thrilled to unveil a change to the Retreat. Focused on bringing an enhanced experience, the 2024 leadership retreat will offer a brand new layout featuring not one, but four incredible moderators steering our roundtable discussions.
The decision to introduce this approach to the Retreat’s format reflects Club Solutions’ commitment to delivering a comprehensive and empowering leadership experience for participants. By integrating the expertise of four seasoned professionals, the event aims to address multifaceted challenges faced by leaders in today’s dynamic business landscape.
“The health and fitness industry is a collaborative, diverse industry, and we’re excited to lean into that,” said Taylor Brown, the editor of Club Solutions Magazine. “The sole purpose of the Leadership Retreat is to help operators grow, learn and connect. I think the more people we have leading the education and sharing their personal journeys, the more attendees will gain from attending.”
Meet the Moderators:
Maria Gonzalez, the CEO of ClubFitness Greensboro. In 2001, Gonzalez became a lifeguard at the club, becoming first the aquatics director four years later, then club manager, executive director and ultimately, CEO. Gonzalez is a great example of servant leadership and a pillar in her community. She will be moderating our roundtable on leadership and personal development.
Derek Gallup, the founder and president of SPARKLE — The Carla Gallup Foundation. Gallup has been a mainstay in the industry and most recently was the former EVP of UFC GYM. In 2023 he founded SPARKLE as a way to turn his pain into purpose, after his wife of 30 years lost her battle with mental illness in October of 2022. Today SPARKLE is working to help the fitness industry create a larger impact on mental health by raising awareness and funding for mental health and survivors of suicide loss programs. Gallup will be leading our roundtable on mental health, recovery and wellness.
Marisa Hoff, a partner of The Empower Group. Hoff has been a part of the health and fitness industry since 2010. She was an intricate part of creating a new business, which challenged her to grow both personally and professionally. The skills she acquired — ranging from sales to customer service to leadership and management to marketing — help her to continue making a difference in the industry. She will be leading the roundtable on best marketing strategies.
Matt Wright, the chief growth officer of the 50,000-square-foot Fort Athletic Club and founding partner of the Earn Your Stripes high-intensity fitness program. He’s worked in various fitness arenas, and the thing he’s learned about success in this business is how important it is to build, nurture and support teams. Wright prides himself on being a multiplier, a connector and a student of life. His primary goal is to lead and inspire others to realize their full potential in both their personal and professional life. He will be leading our roundtable discussion on staffing.
“We’re excited to have Maria, Matt, Marisa and Derek moderate the Leadership Retreat. These four exceptional leaders will provide a 360-degree view of fitness industry essentials. This multifaceted approach reflects our commitment to offering a comprehensive and enriching experience for all involved in the event,” said Brown.
Participants can expect an immersive and interactive experience, resulting in gaining insights, having fun in teambuilding activities and networking with other likeminded professionals. The expanded format aims to empower attendees with a well-rounded skill set, equipping them to navigate the complexities of today’s professional landscape.
The Club Solutions Leadership Retreat will take place September 9-11 at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa in San Antonio, Texas, a four-star resort just 20 minutes from downtown San Antonio. For more information on the event, please visit peakemediaevents.com/retreat. If you’d like to attend email taylor@peakemedia.com to learn more.
