HALO Talks

In this episode of HALO Talks, industry veteran CJ Bouchard opens up to host Pete Moore about the realities of entrepreneurship in the fitness industry, sharing candid stories of risk, resilience, and what it really means to build from the ground up. From betting his savings on a fledgling franchise in North Carolina and initially making daily two-hour commutes, to pivoting and learning tough lessons about club size, site selection, and market expansion, CJ reveals how grit, adaptability, and a clear mission have fueled Excel Fitness's phenomenal growth. Planet Fitness (NYSE:PLNT) is one of the largest and fastest-growing operators of fitness centers in the U.S, and Excel Fitness Holdings is one of their largest franchisees currently operating 150+ clubs in Austin, Dallas/Ft Worth, Tulsa, Northwest Arkansas, North Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Georgia, and Virginia. Their mission is to build a team culture and atmosphere constructed on trust, humility, and strong relationships, always leading by example and putt

In this episode of HALO Talks, host Pete Moore sits down with long-time friend and industry veteran Tom Muller, owner of Elevate Fitness in Syracuse, NY. With roots that stretch back to the Gold's Gym days, Tom shares his journey through decades of shifting trends, club expansions, and the pivotal decision to rebrand and tech-enable his business for the modern member experience. From innovative fitness programming and thriving tennis and swim programs to the impact of major local investments like Micron and Amazon, Tom reveals the strategies that have kept Elevate thriving in a stable, but fiercely competitive market.  Tom has always focused on building strong programming for his clubs. Under his guidance, both locations have developed powerful personal training programs and dynamic group exercise offerings. Group X classes, including yoga and Pilates, are a highlight, and Tom even launched a dedicated Pilates studio for reformer sessions. As fitness trends changed, he also transitioned away from spinning cla

Excited to share highlights from this week's HALO Talks FastBreak featuring Kaitlin Miller from Court Kings. A level 5 player herself, Kaitlin and Pete dive deep into the rapid growth of pickleball and how Court Kings innovative court solutions are shaping the industry—especially for health and fitness facilities. 3 key takeaways: Booming Demand: Pickleball courts in NYC (especially at Life Time Inc.) are booked solid from open to close—sometimes with waitlists to join! If your facility hasn't added pickleball yet, now is the time. Turnkey Court Solutions: Court Kings was recently named the preferred court builder for USA Pickleball and offers end-to-end services from consulting and court surfacing to fencing, nets, and soundproofing—making it easy for facility owners to get started. Fast Installation: With proper planning, facilities can have new courts installed in as little as 2–4 weeks. Early communication (with the General Contractor especially) and material ordering are key to a smooth rollout. If you

Welcome to another episode of HALO Talks! In today's episode, Integrity Square Founder and host Pete Moore sits down with Steve Marchese, the founder of LightStim, to dig into the transformative power of LED light technology and its growing role in med spas and wellness centers across the country. Steve shares the LightStim origin story, which was born out of a personal mission to help his own son combat dangerously high blood pressure when traditional medicine offered no solutions. What started as a family "Hail Mary" turned into years of rigorous innovation, FDA collaboration, and breakthroughs in the science of light therapy. The conversation touches on how LightStim developed from handheld devices for skincare to pioneering full-body LED beds, navigating ongoing regulatory controversies of LED and red light therapy, and the persistence needed to create products that truly deliver results. After a few years, Steve saw an opportunity to expand, developing adjustable facial panels for the professional market

Welcome to HALO Talks, where we dive into the entrepreneurial journeys and strategic insights shaping the HALO sector! (Health, Active Lifestyle, Outdoors.) In this episode, host Pete Moore sits down with longtime friend and industry veteran Jim Solomon, founder of Hone Fitness. Broadcasting on location from Toronto, Jim shares his story of more than 26 years in the fitness space, from his early days as a senior associate at Gold's Gym to building and selling clubs in Toronto's unique urban neighborhoods. They talk candidly about the "puzzle" that is site selection in metropolitan cities, the evolution and simplicity of the Hone Fitness brand, and the importance of understanding real estate and local culture to create lasting success. Jim and Pete reflect on decades of fitness industry experience, discuss lessons learned from mergers, acquisitions, and private equity partnerships, and reveal how a lean, neighborhood-focused strategy led Hone to thrive in a fast-growing, diverse city. Whether you're an operato

Welcome to another episode of HALO Talks! Today, host Pete Moore sits down with Luke Hartelust--a dynamic entrepreneur and now the founder of MNLY--who made the leap from the oil and gas rigs off the coast of Australia to California's innovative health tech scene. Luke shares his journey from the grueling world of offshore drilling to launching and scaling fitness businesses, including his instrumental role in bringing F45 Training to Southern California.  The conversation dives deep into his latest venture, a groundbreaking men's health platform that uses AI, cutting-edge blood analysis, and custom supplementation to help men take true ownership of their health. Tune in to hear his insights on building community, the power of personalization in wellness, and what it takes to stand out in the rapidly evolving health optimization space. When it comes to the personalized health revolution he states, "Based on your blood work, our model will prescribe specific doses of specific micronutrients, aminos, herbs, ext

Welcome to HALO Talks! In today’s episode, host Pete Moore sits down with Rick Dennis, Co-Founder of Bakersfield’s Body Xchange and a definite "OG" in the HALO sector. With over 30 years of experience—including a storied career at Family Fitness, 24 Hour Fitness, and launching successful clubs with longtime partner John Ovanessian—Rick shares insights on evolving gym models, member experience, and responding to changing trends. Rick and Pete chat about how Body Xchange became a place “where everybody trains,” adapting to the post-COVID demand for more strength training, flexible facilities, and self-guided workouts. Rick opens up about the importance of listening to your local community, running a tight operation with zero leverage, and the unique advantages of local ownership in a burgeoning market like Bakersfield, CA.  Pete and Rick also chat about future growth—both for Body Xchange and the Bakersfield area itself—as well as reflections on how today’s athletes are changing the game in high school sports a

Welcome to another episode of HALO Talks! Today, host Pete Moore sits down with Duff McDonald, former investment banker and well known business journalist, for a fantastic chat. Duff, whose career has spanned investment banking, business journalism, and bestselling books like “The Golden Passport” and “Tickled,” shares insights on how numbers and data have come to dominate our understanding of business and life—but why they often fail to capture what really matters. In this episode, you’ll hear Duff break down the difference between “experts” and “specialists,” challenge conventional thinking on metrics, and advocate for living—and doing business—in the present. Pete and Duff explore why true connection, presence, and awareness can lead to better decisions, stronger relationships, and more meaningful work, especially in the world of health clubs and other verticals in the HALO sector. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or simply curious about finding more joy and meaning in your day-to-day, this conver

On this episode of HALO Talks, host Pete Moore sits down with Logan Chierotti, founder of Physician’s Choice supplements, to dig into the in's and out's of building a high-growth company in the HALO space. Logan discusses his journey from working in digital marketing to launching what is now the top probiotic brand on Amazon, with annual revenues approaching $250 million. He opens up about the importance of focusing on value and science-backed products, the challenges of navigating both e-com and retail distribution, and the lessons learned in building a top-tier executive team. Whether you’re a health club operator considering selling supplements or an entrepreneur looking for growth tips, you’ll want to hear Logan’s takeaways on company culture, self-awareness, and long-term success in a rapidly evolving, highly-competitive space. When it comes to educating customers beyond just price, Logan states, "We wanted to give consumers value. And what's nice is with the Internet or e-commerce or even . . . med spas

In today’s episode, host Pete Moore sits down with returning guest Jason Moore, CEO and founder of Spren (formerly Elite HRV.) Jason shares the journey of his company’s cutting-edge technology, which transforms any smartphone into an advanced biomarker and body composition analysis tool. With over a million users and thousands of coaches trained, Spren’s platform is accelerating how gyms, coaches, and fitness enthusiasts track results and stay motivated. Pete and Jason dive into the evolution of Spren’s technology, lessons learned from the pandemic, and how partnerships with industry leaders like Fitness On Demand are reshaping the member experience across more than a thousand gyms. Jason also pulls back the curtain on the powerful data trends Spren has uncovered, including what truly drives lasting health changes among gym members—and why focusing on muscle may be the key to long-term success. Whether you’re a club operator, coach, or just passionate about fitness technology, this episode is a candid look at

On today's episode, host Pete Moore sits down with Cori Myka, founder of Calm Within Adult Swim, to dive into the world of adult swimming—and why it’s never too late to learn. Cori shares her personal passion for water, the (often substantial)  psychological hurdles adults face when learning to swim, and how her unique Foundations of Change program helps people overcome fear and embrace aquatic confidence. Pete and Cori explore the relatively untapped demand for adult swim instruction, discuss the mental and physical dynamics of learning new skills later in life, and offer insights for health clubs considering specialized swim programming. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a club owner or manager that has access to a pool, or just someone eager to get more comfortable in the water, this episode delivers thoughtful advice, actionable strategies, and a refreshing perspective on aquatics for all ages. On the untapped potential of adult swim programs, Myka states, "That's the piece that I think is an underserved, u

On today’s episode, Founder of Integrity Square and HALO Talks host Pete Moore sits down with longtime friend and Talent Optimizer Group founder, Tom Johnston. They dive deep into the power of talent optimization and why having the right people in the right seats is the ultimate game-changer for HALO (Health, Active Lifestyle, Outdoors) sector businesses. Tom unpacks how health clubs can move beyond traditional hiring practices, bring rigor to their people strategy, and use data-driven insights—like employee engagement surveys and behavioral assessments—to build winning, high-performing teams. From real-world case studies with leaders like Club 16’s Trevor Linden to practical advice on boosting employee retention and preparing your business for sale, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help club owners turn their workforce into a true differentiator. Whether you’re scaling up, planning an exit, or just want more engaged employees and less churn, you’ll get an inside look at the role of compas

On this episode of HALO Talks, host Pete Moore sits down with Larry English—former NFL player, real estate developer, and now the mind behind Mind Body Mastery and the Union Capital Company. Larry opens up about his journey from achieving his childhood dream of playing in the NFL, to facing the tough transition into business and entrepreneurship. He shares the pivotal realization that his champion mindset and focus on health, once honed as a pro athlete, was just as essential in the world of business. Larry talks about the importance of optimizing the "operator behind the business," using a data-driven approach to health and performance that goes far beyond "typical" fitness routines. Learn how a life-changing moment—watching the film "Concussion"—sparked his commitment to longevity and cognitive health, leading him to invest heavily in cutting-edge wellness strategies. Now, Larry helps executives and entrepreneurs unlock their peak potential through personalized, high-accountability programs that blend scien

On this episode of HALO Talks, host Pete Moore sits down with Beverly Wolfer, Executive Director of Tina’s Wish, to dive into the critical topic of health literacy and the power of community-driven change. Beverly shares her journey from the world of consulting to the nonprofit sector, where she leads efforts toward early detection of ovarian cancer—a mission inspired by the legacy of Judge Tina Brozman. Pete and Beverly explore how HALO sector leaders (health, active lifestyle, outdoors) can champion women’s health through partnership, awareness, and education. Beverly sheds light on the life-saving potential of spreading knowledge about ovarian cancer’s subtle symptoms, and explains how Tina’s Wish is building a powerful platform—“What to Know Down Below”—to bridge gaps in health literacy and empower women to advocate for themselves. Listeners will also hear Beverly’s inspiring perspective on purposeful career pivots, the importance of giving back, and the deep meaning she finds in honoring her brother’s le

In this episode, host Pete Moore sits down with Andrew Petcash—former college basketball player, venture capitalist, and one of LinkedIn’s most insightful voices on the business of sports. Andrew shares his journey from building a massive NBA YouTube channel as a teenager to founding Profluence Capital, a sports-focused venture fund that connects founders, investors, and cutting-edge sports businesses. The conversation dives deep into Andrew’s strategy for breaking down sports industry segments, sourcing valuable market data, and building authentic, action-oriented thought leadership (or, as Pete calls it, “action leadership!") He unpacks how his personal brand has become a powerful engine for attracting investment targets and shares why transparency in the investment process can spark even more opportunities in the ever-evolving sports landscape. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or just interested in youth and collegiate sports—including the ripple effects of NIL—this episode gives you a behind-th

On this episode of HALO Talks, host Pete Moore sits down with Tony Reed—a longtime marathoner, accomplished CPA, grandfather, and passionate advocate for healthier communities. Tony shares his journey that initially began with a childhood diagnosis of pre-diabetes and grew into a lifelong commitment to fitness. He discusses how running not only changed his own life, helping him avoid diabetes, and chronic disease, but also inspired him to support others, particularly within the African American community, through education and community-building. Tony details the beginning of the National Black Marathoners Association, the myths they aim to dispel, and the training and sustainability programs they've launched over the past 20 years. He also talked about the organization's impact—including producing documentaries and creating a nationwide network of running clubs—and offers solid advice for anyone looking to balance a demanding career with a purpose-driven mission. Whether you’re a runner, a club owner, or an

Hope you’re having a winning week! We’re back with this week’s

In today's episode, host Pete Moore sits down with long-time friend and veteran health club entrepreneur, Mark Rothschild. From launching his first gym in 1995 to navigating the evolving landscape of the HALO (Health, Active Lifestyle, Outdoor) space, Mark shares his journey through the industry’s highs and lows—including insights gained through decades of club ownership, expansion, and his own, personal transformation. The conversation dives deep into Mark’s shift from traditional gym operations to curating meaningful wellness experiences, like his transformative retreat in Costa Rica. Pete and Mark reflect on the power of disconnecting from daily anxiety, reframing self-care, and the importance of creating supportive communities—both inside and outside the gym. Whether you’re a fitness professional, club owner, or someone in search of inspiration for your next chapter, this episode is packed with upfront wisdom, real talk about growth, and a look at what it means to both "lead and heal."  Key themes discuss