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://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/