In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke welcomes Richard Grönberg, Founder and CEO of ECDESIGN — a leading 3D interior design software that empowers sales professionals to quickly plan and visualize any space without the complexity of traditional CAD tools. With over 10,000 companies across 170 countries using the platform, ECDESIGN is transforming how fitness and commercial environments are imagined and brought to life.

Tune in as Richard shares insights into the power of design, his business philosophy, and how intuitive planning tools are shaping the future of space visualization in the fitness industry.

One Powerful Quote:

18:31: “There are no shortcuts.”

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

2:51: Bryan asks Richard about the origins of ECDESIGN and what inspired him to launch the business.

5:25: The conversation shifts to Swedish design and how it influenced Richard’s journey into the fitness industry.

7:15: Richard explains how design expectations have evolved and what users now look for when using ECDESIGN.

8:26: Bryan and Richard explore how gaming principles have influenced modern design tools and the role of technology in that transformation.

13:21: Richard shares his approach to leadership, organizational management, and his core business philosophy.

16:20: Richard offers closing thoughts and shares key insights for listeners from his entrepreneurial experience.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://www.ecdesign.se/

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-gronberg/

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke is joined by Julian Barnes, Co-Founder and CEO of The BFS Network, a market intelligence and growth accelerator for beauty, fitness, and self-care businesses. In his role, Julian serves as a strategic growth advisor, helping BFS members enhance profitability and scale smarter.

With a background that includes marketing leadership roles at Velocity Sports Performance and Oasis Day Spa, Julian later co-founded Body Local, NYC’s premier networking platform for wellness professionals. Today, he leads BFS, which supports business owners by offering collaborative learning, operational training, and access to high-impact products and services.

Tune in as Bryan and Julian explore innovation and the evolving needs of the modern, boutique fitness business.

For those who wish to purchase the full BFS Report, use Discount Code FIT-C for $50 off.

One Powerful Quote:

38:10: “Focus on the one thing that’s the most important thing to get you to the next milestone.”

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

1:41: Julian shares his personal journey and background in the fitness industry.

4:13: Julian talks about the lifecycle of boutique fitness and how the industry is evolving.

7:40: Bryan and Julian reflect on the origins of boutique fitness and the iconic brands that shaped the space.

13:50: Julian talks about boutique modalities and the renewed popularity of pilates.

22:59: Julian speaks about the convergence of fitness, recovery, longevity, and beauty.

27:51: Julian offers his perspective on the growing role of strength training.

30:22: Bryan and Julian discuss intermediaries, membership dynamics, and business models.

37:57: Julian imparts his pearls of wisdom to the listeners.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://bfsnetwork.com/

www.BFSReport.com

https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/the-rise-of-boutique-studio-fitness-concepts/66643673

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julianabarnes/

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke is joined by Eddie Arpin, Co-Founder of OfferingTree, a comprehensive website, scheduling, and payment solution designed specifically for wellness professionals. OfferingTree empowers coaches, yoga instructors, personal trainers, mindfulness teachers, and other wellness practitioners by streamlining digital operations, so they can focus on delivering exceptional client experiences. In this conversation, Eddie shares the journey behind OfferingTree, his insights into the evolving needs of wellness professionals, and practical advice on building trust, improving client engagement, and leveraging digital tools effectively.

One Powerful Quote:

16:06: “Trust is the most valuable commodity in the world now.”

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

2:47: Eddie shares his software background and the origins of OfferingTree.

5:24: Bryan and Eddie talk about common pain points for wellness professionals.

9:37: Bryan asks Eddie about the value and impact of SMS marketing.

12:26: Eddie goes into evolving trends in content strategy and SEO.

14:57: Eddie shares his thoughts on payment processing and earning customer trust.

17:14: Bryan and Eddie discuss why tech stack integration matters more than ever.

25:54: Bryan wraps up the interview with Eddie imparting his final pearls of wisdom.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://www.offeringtree.com/

https://www.edelman.com/trust/2025/trust-barometer

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddiearpin/

https://x.com/fifth_eddie

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163