In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O’Rourke welcomes David Stalker, co-founder of Looking Glass Partners, a firm that brings together experience across health, fitness, wellness, investment, operations, technology, and strategy to help owners, operators, and investors navigate the opportunities and challenges facing the industry. David has more than 35 years of experience in the global physical activity sector and is one of its most recognized leaders.

David is the Chair of ukactive, the organization he previously led as CEO for seven years. He also spent five years as President of EuropeActive, where he remains an ambassador, and he has served as CEO of Myzone EMEA and Chair of CIMSPA. Earlier in his career, he held senior operating roles including Group Brands and Marketing Director at Leisure Connection PLC, Managing Director of Harpers Fitness Clubs, and Chairman of Fit for Sport. Today, he holds board and advisory positions with a number of companies across the sector, including Alliance Leisure and Myzone. Few people have shaped the direction of the European fitness industry as consistently as David, and his perspective spans operations, policy, technology, and investment.

Today, David joins Bryan to talk about how he got his start in the industry, where he sees it heading, and what operators and investors are still missing.

Check out Beyond Activ Americas: https://beyondactiv.com/events/americas/

Check out FIT-C's 2026 Digital Pulse Report: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GTV2QT18

One Powerful Quote:

19:05: “Technology needs to make our industry more human, not less.”

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

4:36: Bryan asks David about his career and background.

8:13: Bryan and David discuss the emergence of the modern commercial fitness industry.

11:38: David shares what the industry may be missing and what leaders should be considering.

14:47: Bryan and David examine the challenges of evolving service models to deliver better outcomes.

22:12: Bryan asks David about the impact of technology and what he sees coming next.

28:59: David shares his advice for listeners.

Bullet List of Resources: