In this heart-filled and high-impact episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail sits down with luxury couples retreat host Lesley Jordan to explore the real keys to retreat success-and spoiler alert: it's not just about the perfect venue or a pretty website.
From her beginnings as a travel agent to launching powerful, profitable retreats for couples of all backgrounds, Lesley shares how mentorship, strategic pricing, and relationship-first marketing changed the game for her. Together, Shannon and Lesley dig into:
If you're building a retreat brand that centers around depth, authenticity, and aligned growth—this one's for you.
Learn more: www.lavishcouplesretreats.com
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Timestamps:
Introducing Leslie Jordan (00:01:00)
Shannon introduces guest Leslie Jordan, highlighting her energy and inviting her to share her background.
Leslie's Journey to Retreats (00:01:35)
Leslie shares her transition from travel agent to retreat curator, focusing on luxury retreats for couples and women.
The Power of Coaching in Retreat Business (00:02:25)
Discussion on meeting through a coach, the importance of having a coach, and the loneliness of entrepreneurship.
Finding the Right Coach (00:03:16)
Leslie describes her experience with different coaches, learning about business models, pricing, and defining her retreat offerings.
Building Relationships Over Pretty Marketing (00:04:00)
Leslie explains the importance of building genuine relationships with clients, not just relying on attractive websites.
Creating Lavish Couples Retreats (00:05:02)
Leslie talks about launching her own retreat business, focusing on reconnection and intimacy for various types of couples.
The Value of Multiple Coaches (00:05:24)
Shannon and Leslie discuss the benefits of having more than one coach with different expertise.
Marketing vs. Selling & Relationship Building (00:06:02)
Emphasis on turning marketing activities into real relationships and the changing landscape of the retreat industry.
Learning Strategy and Pricing (00:06:52)
Leslie shares how her coaches helped her with sales strategies, pricing, and repeat business.
Choosing Experienced Coaches (00:07:29)
Shannon stresses the importance of working with experienced coaches who understand the retreat business deeply.
Treating Retreats as a Business (00:09:00)
Discussion on treating retreats as a business model, not just an event, and integrating it with other offerings.
Overcoming Fear and Stagnation (00:09:18)
Leslie recounts how the wrong coaching held her back and how the right coaches helped her move forward.
Vetting Coaches and Profitability (00:10:36)
Advice on vetting coaches, asking about their experience, and ensuring they understand profitability in retreats.
Industry Trends and Red Flags (00:11:37)
Warning about inexperienced coaches and the importance of understanding all aspects of the retreat business.
Profitability is Essential (00:11:59)
Shannon and Leslie agree that breaking even is not a sustainable business model for retreats.
Attending Retreats as Research (00:12:31)
Leslie shares the value of attending retreats, especially those hosted by your coach, to learn logistics and marketing.
The Importance of Being an Attendee (00:13:11)
Shannon emphasizes that aspiring retreat leaders should attend retreats themselves to gain perspective.
Community and Networking Benefits (00:15:07)
Discussion on the community, networking, and collaborations that come from being part of a coaching group.
Ongoing Value of Retreat Attendance (00:16:24)
Leslie and Shannon discuss the ongoing benefits of attending retreats, including support, networking, and personal growth.
Leslie's Upcoming Retreats (00:17:18)
Leslie shares details about her upcoming retreats for LGBTQ+ and heterosexual couples, and her inclusive approach.
How to Connect with Leslie (00:18:52)
Leslie provides her website and social media handles for listeners to learn more or join her retreats.
