Episode Summary:

In this episode of Beyond The Studio: Fitness Marketing Podcast, I sit down with an absolute legend in the fitness industry—Janice Jaicks, founder of FitnessFest. With nearly 40 years of experience in the field, Janice shares how she turned her passion for fitness into a long-standing, industry-renowned event that continues to grow year after year. We dive into the evolution of FitnessFest, how she expanded from water aerobics into a multi-discipline fitness education conference, and why continued education is crucial for fitness professionals.

Janice also gets real about the challenges of running a fitness business, including the impact of COVID, navigating team dynamics, and staying on top of industry trends. Plus, we talk about the rise of holistic wellness, the importance of networking, and how FitnessFest is adapting to the latest shifts in fitness education. Whether you're a personal trainer, gym owner, or fitness entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights on building a lasting brand and making a meaningful impact in the industry.

Episode Highlights:

[2:10] - How Janice got her start in fitness and the unexpected opportunity that led to her career

[6:45] - The origins of FitnessFest and its evolution into a multi-discipline fitness education event

[12:30] - Why continued education is more important than ever for fitness professionals

[18:15] - The impact of in-person networking and why virtual events can’t replace live interaction

[24:40] - The biggest challenges in running a fitness event, from COVID setbacks to team dynamics

[31:20] - Emerging fitness trends: active aging, holistic wellness, and the rise of GLP-1 conversations

[38:50] - Janice’s advice for aspiring fitness entrepreneurs on marketing, networking, and scaling a business