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The Retreat Leaders Podcast

The Retreat Leaders Podcast

Written by: Shannon Jamail
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 Welcome to The Retreat Leaders Podcast, a top 2% global podcast for retreat leaders, venue owners, and entrepreneurs building powerful retreat businesses. Hosted by Shannon Jamail of Retreat Ranch, this show shares real conversations, expert strategy, and behind-the-scenes insights from leaders in the retreat industry. From marketing and pricing to guest experience, operations, and avoiding expensive mistakes, you'll learn what it really takes to host retreats that are both transformational and profitable. Whether you're planning your first retreat or scaling an established retreat business, this podcast will help you lead with confidence and grow with intention. Learn more at https://theretreatleadersplaybook.com/ Economics Leadership Management & Leadership Self-Help Success
Episodes
  • Special Release | From Dream to Dirt - How We Built Retreat Ranch From Scratch

    Special Release | From Dream to Dirt - How We Built Retreat Ranch From Scratch
    May 20 2026
    What does it actually take to build a retreat center from scratch? The land, the structures, the permits, the parking, the storage, the vision - and the marriage that has to survive all of it? In this episode, Shannon sits down with her husband Nathan Jamail - world-renowned leadership and sales keynote speaker, and co-owner of Retreat Ranch - to pull back the curtain on the real journey of building one of Texas Hill Country's most unique retreat destinations. This is not a highlight reel. This is the honest, practical, sometimes hard-won story of what it takes to go from a dream to a fully operating retreat center. And this episode is especially meaningful because it's releasing on the five-year anniversary of opening Retreat Ranch's doors for the very first retreat - hosted by Kim DeMoss with Project Mindful Movement. Five years later, what started as a vision has grown into a thriving retreat destination that has welcomed countless guests, retreat leaders, and transformational experiences. Retreat Ranch is a 46-acre, nature-forward glamping retreat and event space in the Texas Hill Country, sleeping up to 32 guests, featuring horses, goats, hens, a sauna, dipping pools, aerial yoga, and a heart-centered team that lives and breathes hospitality. But it didn't start that way - and this episode is all about the road to get here. In this episode: Why you must start with the long-term vision before you break ground on anythingThe "not sexy" things that will make or break your retreat center - storage, parking, infrastructureWhy building too small for your vision is one of the most expensive mistakes you can makeHow to take a big vision and execute it in strategic, bite-sized phasesWhat it's really like to build a business with your spouse - the wins, the hard conversations, and the non-negotiablesThe business decisions behind Retreat Ranch that every aspiring retreat center owner needs to hearWhat Nathan - a global leadership expert - learned about building a team and a culture at the ranch If you've ever dreamed of owning a retreat center, or if you're already in the process of building one, this episode will save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. Learn about Retreat Ranch: https://theretreatranch.com/ Learn about Nathan: https://nathanjamail.com/ Learn about Project Mindful Movement: https://projectmindfulmovement.com The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Get your legal docs for retreats Join our LinkedIn Group Apply to be a guest on our show Grab the AI + SEO Mini Course Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together! Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify --------- TIMESTAMPS Building a Retreat Venue (00:01:54) Shannon and Nathan introduce the episode's topic: the journey, successes, and mistakes of building their retreat venue, Retreat Ranch. Choosing Texas Over California (00:03:12) They discuss the initial plan to build in California and the logistical and business reasons that led them to Texas instead. Finding and Developing Raw Land (00:04:37) The story of finding the 46-acre property, which was undeveloped with no roads, water, or power, and their intentional clearing process. The Importance of Infrastructure (00:10:02) Discussion on the necessity of planning for infrastructure like plumbing and electricity, and the "Shannon pipe" for future expansion. Mistake: Not Planning Big Enough (00:11:25) They share their biggest mistake: not planning for their maximum capacity from the start, leading to spaces like the dining hall being too small. Elevating the Guest Experience (00:13:45) The importance of details, like high-quality robes and linens, to create an elevated, "bougie" experience for guests. Knowing Your Niche (00:17:08) They emphasize building the venue for a specific audience (retreats) rather than trying to cater to everyone, which ensures high standards. Starting Small and Evolving (00:19:07) How the ranch started with minimal accommodations and has grown over five years, adding more features and bathrooms along the way. Marketing to a Specific Audience (00:23:04) The strategy of marketing exclusively to retreats, which has led to being booked a year or more in advance. Planning for Future Growth (00:27:16) Discussing their annual business planning, including adding an office, podcast studio, and expanding the horse barn to keep the venue fresh. The Vision for a Multi-Use Space (00:30:01) Plans for a future indoor/outdoor multi-use space to serve as a backup for bad weather and for corporate meetings. Vision vs. Execution (00:31:43) Shannon's role as the visionary and Nathan's role in execution, using the evolution of the pool area as an example. Key Advice for Venue Builders (00:35:15) Advice for aspiring ...
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    48 mins
  • EP 270 Retreat Insurance: What Every Retreat Leader Must Know with Event Helper

    EP 270 Retreat Insurance: What Every Retreat Leader Must Know with Event Helper
    May 14 2026
    Let's talk about something most retreat leaders avoid… until they absolutely can't. Insurance. In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail sits down with Myles Anderson from Event Helper, an insurance provider specializing in events and retreats, to break down why insurance is not optional in the retreat industry - it's essential. Because here's the reality: You are responsible for people's safety, experiences, and well-being during your retreat. And without the right coverage in place, one incident can put your entire business - and personal assets - at risk. In this conversation, Shannon and Myles discuss: Why retreat leaders need event insuranceWhy venues should require itWhat can actually go wrong at a retreatThe real consequences of not having proper coverageHow retreat leaders can protect themselves, their guests, and their business This episode is not fear-based - it's reality-based. If you host retreats, events, or group experiences, this is one of the most important conversations you can listen to. What You'll Learn in This Episode • Why insurance is essential for retreat leaders • What types of risks exist at retreats and events • Why venues require insurance (and why you should expect it) • What can happen financially and legally without coverage • How insurance protects both the host and the guest experience Key Takeaways You Are Responsible as the Host When you host a retreat, you are taking on responsibility for: participant safetyactivitiesenvironmentlogistics Even with the best planning, things can happen. Insurance Protects More Than You Think Insurance isn't just about worst-case scenarios. It protects: your businessyour personal assetsyour reputationyour ability to continue hosting retreats Venues Require It for a Reason Professional venues often require retreat leaders to carry insurance. This protects: the venuethe retreat hostthe guests If a venue doesn't require it, that's something to pay attention to. Without Insurance, the Risk Is Real Without proper coverage, retreat leaders could face: liability claimslegal costsunexpected financial loss And in some cases, it could shut down a retreat business completely. This Is About Being a Professional Running a retreat is not just about creating a great experience. It's about operating a real business. And real businesses protect themselves. About Event Helper Event Helper provides event and retreat insurance designed to protect hosts, organizers, and venues. They specialize in offering coverage for a wide range of events, helping business owners operate with confidence and reduce risk. Learn more at: https://www.theeventhelper.com/#retreatleaders The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host RetreatsJoin our private Facebook GroupTop 5 Marketing Tools Free GuideGet your legal docs for retreats Join Shannon in Denver at the Retreat Industry Forum Join our LinkedIn Group Apply to be a guest on our show Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together! Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify ------- TIMESTAMPS Myles' Background and Role (00:01:07) Myles explains his role at Event Helper and their focus on event liability insurance. Venue vs. Event Host Insurance (00:02:16) Discussion on the difference between a venue's insurance and an event host's insurance policy. Why Event Hosts Need Insurance (00:03:15) Myles details why event hosts need their own liability insurance and what it covers. Cost and Value of Event Insurance (00:05:08) Shannon and Myles discuss the typical costs and the importance of investing in event insurance. Real-Life Claims and Examples (00:06:08) Myles shares examples of claims, including property damage and injury incidents at events. Legal Defense and Coverage Scope (00:07:51) Explanation of how insurance policies provide legal defense, not just payouts for damages. Participant Injuries and Waivers (00:08:39) Discussion about participant injuries, waivers, and when hosts may or may not be liable. Personal Liability Risks (00:10:34) Shannon warns about personal liability and the financial risks of not having insurance. Coverage Limits and Host Liquor Liability (00:11:42) Myles explains coverage limits, options up to $5 million, and inclusion of host liquor liability. Honesty in Policy Applications (00:12:35) Importance of accurately disclosing retreat activities when applying for insurance. Exclusions and High-Risk Activities (00:12:49) Myles discusses exclusions, higher-risk activities, and how Event Helper handles special cases. Participant Coverage Options (00:14:29) Explanation of liability vs. participant coverage for athletic or sporting retreat components. Event Helper as Preferred Partner (00:15:10) Shannon shares why her venue prefers Event Helper and the ease of ...
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    20 mins
  • EP 269 Why Glamping and Retreats Are the Perfect Pair (And What Retreat Leaders Need to Know) with Sarah Riley

    EP 269 Why Glamping and Retreats Are the Perfect Pair (And What Retreat Leaders Need to Know) with Sarah Riley
    May 7 2026
    The retreat industry is evolving - and one of the biggest opportunities right now sits at the intersection of glamping and retreats. In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail sits down with Sarah Riley, a UK-based glamping industry expert and co-organizer of The Glamping Show America, to explore how glamping and retreats are becoming one of the most powerful combinations in experiential hospitality. Sarah has been working in the glamping and retreat space since 2010, helping entrepreneurs launch lifestyle businesses and navigate the realities of building glamping sites - from concept to permissions to profitability. Together, Shannon and Sarah break down: Why glamping and retreats naturally complement each otherHow retreat leaders can use glamping to enhance guest experience and increase revenueThe realities of starting a glamping business (and why it's not as "cheap and easy" as people think)Emerging trends in experiential travel and hospitalityHow AI is driving people toward more authentic, in-person experiences They also discuss Shannon's upcoming participation as a speaker at The Glamping Show America this September, where retreat leaders and venue owners can learn directly from experts in the glamping and hospitality space. If you're a retreat leader, venue owner, or entrepreneur looking to expand your offerings or create more unique guest experiences, this episode will open your eyes to what's possible. What You'll Learn in This Episode • Why glamping and retreats are a natural and powerful combination • How glamping can increase occupancy and revenue for retreat venues • The real costs and considerations of starting a glamping business • Funding opportunities available for glamping projects (including crowdfunding) • How AI is shifting consumer behavior toward in-person experiences • Trends shaping the future of experiential hospitality Key Takeaways Glamping and Retreats Are a Natural Fit Glamping enhances the retreat experience by combining: naturecomfortuniquenessimmersion This creates a more memorable and desirable experience for guests. Glamping Is Not a "Cheap" Business There's a common misconception that glamping is easy to start. In reality, it requires: proper permissionsinfrastructureinvestmentplanning However, it also opens the door to unique funding opportunities not typically available to traditional accommodations. Experiential Travel Is Growing Rapidly Travelers are increasingly seeking: unique environmentsnature-based experiencesauthentic, in-person connection Glamping and retreats sit directly at the center of this trend. AI Is Driving a Return to Human Connection As AI continues to reshape the digital world, people are beginning to crave: offline experiencesreal human interactiontrustworthy environments Retreats and glamping experiences provide exactly that. About Sarah Riley Sarah helps ambitious owners launch and grow their glamping businesses quickly and stand out in an increasingly competitive industry. From setting up your foundations to attracting consistent bookings, she shares the powerful (and often overlooked) strategies that give you a real edge… including hosting retreat events to maximise occupancy, even in the off-season. With over a decade of hands-on experience running a boutique hospitality and retreats business, Sarah doesn't just teach this industry… she's lived it. Today, she's a professionally qualified business coach, marketing visibility specialist, and the founder of The Glamping Academy, helping thousands of entrepreneurs turn their ideas into profitable, lifestyle-led businesses. She's also Co-Conference Director of Glamping Show Americas in Colorado, and a recognised voice in the global glamping space. If you're ready to launch with confidence and momentum… Sarah offers a range of high-impact programmes designed to help you start quickly, attract your ideal guests, and build a business you truly love. Because this isn't just about starting a business… It's about creating a lifestyle. https://www.glampingshow.us/ and https:glamping.academy The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host RetreatsJoin our private Facebook GroupTop 5 Marketing Tools Free GuideGet your legal docs for retreats Join Shannon in Denver at the Retreat Industry Forum Join our LinkedIn Group Apply to be a guest on our show Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together! Subscribe: Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify -------- TIMESTAMPS Sarah Riley's Background & Glamping Show (00:01:11) Sarah shares her background in glamping, hospitality, and organizing the Glamping Show America. Glamping and Retreats: The Perfect Match (00:03:23) Discussion on how glamping and retreats complement each other and enhance guest experiences. Glamping ...
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    32 mins
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